MULTISCALE MODELLING OF RESPONSE AND DAMAGE IN CONCRETE STRUCTURES

Abstract

This thesis describes the development of a hierarchical multiscale modelling framework for Normal Strength Concrete (NSC) structure under for static and dynamic blast loading. A Voronoi-based geometrical modelling framework has been developed to generate a periodic 3D Representative Volumetric Element (RVE) of NSC at a mesoscale level. The RVE linear and non-linear responses are studied with Periodic Boundary Conditions (PBCs) implemented through Multi-Point Constraints (MPCs) loading. Utilizing experimental results, calibration of material model parameters of the mesoscale constituents such as mortar and Interfacial Transition Zone (ITZ) are conducted. As an alternative to experimental calibration, a numerical calibration framework is also introduced to couple the mesoscale NSC RVE response to macroscale Concrete Damaged Plasticity (CDP) model. Lastly, the validity of the proposed multiscale modelling framework is investigated under quasi-static loading as well as dynamic blast loading conditions which utilize Coupled Eulerian-Lagrangian (CEL) methodology to capture the blast wave interaction.