To investigate the influence of the loading rate on the cracking behavior of plain concrete beams, a 3D finite element analysis of notched three-point bending beams (normal strength concrete) and can- tilever beams (normal and high strength concrete) was carried…
To investigate the influence of the loading rate on the cracking behavior of plain concrete beams, a 3D finite element analysis of notched three-point bending beams (normal strength concrete) and can- tilever beams (normal and high strength concrete) was carried out. In the used finite element code a model, which is applicable over a many orders of magnitude of the loading rate was adopted. The model is based on the rate process theory of bond ruptures. It was coupled with the microplane model for concrete. Both, static and dynamic analyses were performed. The static analysis was performed using an implicit type of approach whereas in the dynamic analysis the explicit direct integration method was employed. The results show that the loading rate significantly influences the peak resistance and the failure mode of concrete beams.