Probabilistic cracking model for macrocrack propagation in reinforced concrete structures

This paper presents the numerical modelling (finite elements) of the macrocrack propagation in a very large Double Cantilever Beam specimen (DCB specimen usually used in the framework of Fracture Mechanics studies) containing rebars. This numerical modelling is based on three non-linear models: a probabilistic semi-explicit model for concrete cracking, the use of interface elements with a Morh-Coulomb law for steel/concrete bond and an elastic perfect plastic behaviour for the rebars. Relevant results in terms of global behaviour, macrocracking of the DCB specimen and of macrocraking information are obtained