Discrete 3D model as complimentary numerical testing for anisotropic damage

It is proposed to use a discrete particle model as a complimentary “numerical testing machine” to identify the hydrostatic elasticity-damage coupling and the corresponding sensitivity to hydrostatic stresses parameter. Experimental tri-axial tensile testing is difficult to perform on concrete material, and numerical testing proves then its efficiency. The discrete model used for this purpose is based on a Voronoi assembly that naturally takes into account heterogeneity. Tritension tests on a cube specimen, based on a damage growth control, are presented. A successful identification of the hydrostatic sensitivity function of a phenomenological anisotropic damage model is obtained.