A model for cementitious composite materials based on micro-mechanical solutions and damage-contact theory

A model for simulating micro-cracking in cementitious composite materials is presented. The model employs micro-mechanical solutions of a material with a matrix phase, spherical inclusions and penny-shaped cracks as well as a rough crack contact component. The model follows from that of Reference [Jefferson AD, Bennett T. Micro-mechanical damage and rough crack closure in cementitious composite materials. Int J Numer Anal Methods Geomech 2007;31:133–46], but now a two phase composite is used in place of a homogenous material and the matrix stresses are employed in the evaluation of the micro-cracking. Single point compression and tension strain path examples show that the new formulation improves the accuracy of the model when judged against material data from concrete and mortar specimens.