Ricerc@Sapienza

In the present work, a multiscale model for fibre reinforced concrete (FRC) beams failing in bending is presented. At the microstructural level, the fibre is modelled as a one-dimensional continuum with axial, shear and bending deformability, with cohesive-like interfaces to simulate the interaction with the surrounding concrete. At the macroscopic level, the response of the beam is simulated by discretising the cross-section into layers and by enforcing the proper compatibility conditions between the layers.

The addition of metallic fibres in concrete is a widely used technique to increase its
resistance to crack opening, energy absorption capacity, and durability. The properties
of the resulting composite strongly depend on the geometry of the fibres, which usually
dispose of an hooked end, as well as on the mechanical properties of both the fibre
and the concrete. The optimization of the fibre reinforcement mechanisms can only be
achieved by an approach that takes into account adequately these aspects. Therefore,