Thermodynamic-based interface model for cohesive brittle materials: Application to bond slip in RC structures Original Research Article

The main objectives of this work concern a new formulation for an inelastic constitutive model for bond-slip phenomena between brittle cohesive materials and reinforcement through a nondimensional zero-thickness joint finite element. The bond-slip behavior assumes the small deformation and plane strains case. It is firmly placed within the framework of thermodynamics and continuum damage mechanics accounting for frictional sliding. The finite element interface model is based on a 2D-degenerated four-node quadrilateral element which is able to account for interface normal stress as well as for the nonlinear hysteretic tangential–normal coupling of bonding. One of the most important advantages of the proposed model consists in a sufficiently rich kinematics structure for contact allowing for the implementation of refine stress–strain constitutive relations.