Hi,

 I am just going to modify the existing failure criteria of cohesive element in ABA or even write new ones. I am wondering if it will be via UMAT or UEL, or other subroutines. Many thanks!

Chris

Hello! I am modelling crack propagation in concrete specimen under direct tension by using cohesive element in ABAQUS as the interface where crack will propagate. By setting up the proper values of the parameters, I could model the exact behavior prior to the cracking, however, when changing some parameters to get the interface cracked, the model committed to be diversed. I have tried some little skills like viscosity and energy disspation fraction, but it was still not working. I am wondering if it is because of the shape of the notches which I cut two recetangular noches at each side or any other reasons could lead to diverse. Could somebody please help me? Many thanks! Chris.

Hi everybody!

I am now using Abaqus to model concrete cracks by using cohesive element and I have got two questions regarding this:

1. cohesive element, as known, is often employed to model interface especially when the integrity and strength of the interface is of interest. For my problem, there is no real interface, however, I impose a cohesive element interface artificially in the concrete and to see the crack propagation. Is this applicable theoretically?

2. Given the above assumption is correct, how to define the material properties of both concrete and the interface, as the interface is not real but dummy? I really have no sense on this point. 

Kind regards

Chris

Hello everybody, I am working on the concrete crack width (longintudinal) under both corrosion and applied loads using fracture mechanics. In my analytical model I used smeared crack model which as known is simulated by reducting the stiffness and strength, not like discrete crack model assuming displacement discontinuity. When I was approaching to the numerical verification, howver, I found that it was difficult to model the crack propagation as well as getting the crack width. I have tried ABAQUS and ANSYS. My question would be, therefore, can concrete crack width (and propagation) be numerically modelled using smeared crack. If applicable, what software could be used? Many thanks!