Uncertainty of the crack width model based on fracture of concrete

Abstract

A reliable crack width assessment is a basic part of the sustainability control of the reinforced concrete structures subjected to corrosion degradation. The uncertainty of the concrete cracking model based on a finite element method and nonlinear fracture mechanics is investigated. The parameters of numerical model, such as the finite element mesh size and amount and arrangement of reinforcement are the subject of a case study. The uncertainty of the crack width model is verified on the experimental data from the tests of reinforced concrete beams. The constitutive model of crack propagation is based on the smeared cracks. The effects of numerical discretization as well as dimensional simplification are shown.