A Simple Approach for Generating Random Aggregate Model of Concrete Based on Laguerre Tessellation and Its Application Analyses

Generating random aggregate models (RAMs) plays a key role in the mesoscopic modelling of concrete-like composite materials. The arbitrary geometry, wide gradation, and high volume ratio of aggregates pose a great challenge for fast and efficient numerical construction of concrete meso-structures. This paper presents a simple strategy for generating RAMs of concrete based on Laguerre tessellation, which mainly consists of three steps: tessellation, geometric smoothing, and scaling. The computer-assisted design (CAD) file of RAMs obtained by the proposed approach can be directly adopted for the construction of random numerical concrete samples. Combined with the image-based octree meshing algorithm, the scaled boundary finite element method (SBFEM) was adopted for an automatic stress analysis of mass concrete samples, and a parametric study was conducted to investigate the meso-structural effects on concrete elasticity properties. The modelling results successfully reproduced the increasing trend of concrete elastic modulus with the grading of coarse aggregates in literature test data and demonstrate the effectiveness of the proposed strategy.

Damage Simulation of a Random Aggregate Model Induced by Microwave under Different Discontinuous Ratios and Exposure Times

A random aggregate algorithmic method and a numerical model for two-phase materials (composed of quartz and plagioclase) with different discontinuous ratios and irradiation times were studied based on the discrete element method using two-dimensional particle flow code (PFC2D). The results showed that this algorithm can simulate random irregular aggregate shapes. Furthermore, crack initiation and development and the coalescence process of microwave-induced material damage could be predicted using the discrete element method. After analysis of this study, the micro crack originated from the boundary of the high-absorption-phase plagioclase crystal and expanded around the plagioclase, extending into the quartz material. The crack morphology presented a radial network.