Since the mode of failure of brittle solids under compression is splitting, a suggested inference, deduced from gradient strains and internal thrust generate transverse X-tension in concrete, from the this phenomenon, is that very outset. X-tension constitutes a new kind…
Since the mode of failure of brittle solids under compression is splitting, a suggested inference, deduced from gradient strains and internal thrust generate transverse X-tension in concrete, from the this phenomenon, is that very outset. X-tension constitutes a new kind of stress state and is the only origin of the loss of concrete integrity under compression. X-tension has its maximum in the middle of the stress field of compression and increases in accordance with the longitudinal strains. The equation for X-tension is presented, based on the parameters of the concrete components. The release of energy, accumulated by X-tension, explains the explosion-type failure of high-strength concrete under compression. The presented model explains the decrease in the ratio between strength-in-tension to the strength-in-compression with increase in the strengths. The constitutive equation of the nonlinear behavior of concrete in compression is given and it includes the Semi- Gaussian of the integrity of concrete, decreased beyond the limit of linearity due to microcracking. The term: 'plasticity' is not used here, since it has nothing in common with this nonlinearity. PHENOMENON OF MICROCRACKING AND Paradox: In homogeneous materials there are no SPLITTING forces which can induce splitting under compression.