Two-way linked multiscale method integrated with nanomechanical tests and cohesive zone fracture to model highly heterogeneous binding materials

Keyvan Zare Rami, Yong Rak Kim, Mahdieh Khedmati, Gabriel Nsengiyumva, Hani Alanazi

Research output: Contribution to journalArticlepeer-review

17 Scopus citations

Abstract

This paper presents a two-way linked multiscale method that is integrated with nanomechanical tests and a cohesive zone fracture model to investigate highly heterogeneous cementitious materials such as alkali-activated geopolymer. To this end, geopolymer paste, which is known to have multiphase heterogeneous media, was fabricated and tested to identify (1) local-scale microstructures and nanomechanical properties of individual components within the paste, and (2) global-scale fracture through a three-point bending beam test. Local-global results were then integrated with the two-way linked finite-element modeling. Global and local scales were systemically represented in the model with a homogeneous bending beam structure where the elements of the potential crack zone are linked to a heterogeneous geopolymer microstructure representative volume element (RVE) in the two-way coupled multiscale modeling framework. This integrated experimental- computational multiscale approach can provide the material properties, such as micrometer-length-scale cohesive zone fracture properties, which are considered core properties but not usually feasible to identify using conventional test methods. Test-modeling results imply that the two-way linked multiscale method integrated with nanomechanical tests can be used as a method for characterization and design of various multiphase media, including materials used for critical civil infrastructure.

Original languageEnglish (US)
Article number04018095
JournalJournal of Engineering Mechanics
Volume144
Issue number10
DOIs
StatePublished - Oct 1 2018

Keywords

  • Alkali-activated geopolymer
  • Cohesive zone fracture
  • Nanomechanical properties
  • Two-way linked multiscale model

ASJC Scopus subject areas

  • Mechanics of Materials
  • Mechanical Engineering

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