Introduction to the Project
The main purpose of this project is to use the Discrete Element Method software known as EDEM to model the propagation of cracks, which develops in the concrete structure as a part of the loading response.
Concrete is a construction material which is used more than any other material on this planet. Therefore, a greater understanding of the fracture behaviour of concrete and how they propagate would give an opportunity for better and more reliable design of concrete and reinforced concrete structures.
Overall Objectives
The main objectives of our MEng thesis can be summarized as follow:
- to understand the main concepts of Discrete Element Method;
- to gain experience in the application of EDEM software by simulating particles behaviour, see our Analysis;
- to build a Bond Contact Model for particle-surface and particle-particle contact models;
- to apply Bond Contact Model for an assembly of particles and test its response for different loading conditions;
- to compare the crack pattern of the discrete elements assembly with an experimental crack pattern determined by other researchers; [18]
- to carry out a calibration of model parameters.
Finally, we hope that our research will contribute something to the application of discrete element method and the use of EDEM software in the study of concrete behaviour under variety loading conditions.
Programme
Detailed programme of MEng Thesis Project is available in PDF format.
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