Towards multiscale modeling of the interaction between transport and fracture in concrete

Abstract

Transport, fracture and their interaction in concrete are complex phenomena of great practical relevance for the durability of civil engineering structures. Due to the heterogeneous nature of the materials, encompassing a wide range of length scales, multiscale approaches are essential. In this paper, we outline some recent research results and open issues in this field. First, we present a microscale model which aims at simulating chloride diffusion and binding in cement. Then, we outline a mesoscale model addressing coupling between cracking and diffusion. Finally, we discuss open issues in the acquisition of the mesoscale geometry from X-ray computed tomography techniques.