Using a mixed DEM/FEM approach to model advanced damage of reinforced concrete under impact

Abstract

Advanced damage behaviour of reinforced concrete is modelled using a mixed modelling approach, in which concrete is represented through the spherical-type discrete element model, whereas steel reinforcement is modelled by using beam-type finite elements. An original steel-concrete bond model developed and calibrated on pull-out tests is used to ensure transfer of forces between steel and concrete. The proposed approach is applied to simulate soft and hard-type impacts on RC beams within a very complete modelling framework, thus allowing validating by comparison with experimental data the overall numerical approach developed.