An enhanced lattice beam element model for the numerical simulation of rate-dependent self-healing in cementitious materials

Abstract

This paper describes the development of a discrete lattice model for simulating structures formed from self-healing cementitious materials. In particular, a new approach is presented for simulating time dependent mechanical healing in lattice elements. The proposed formulation is designed to simulate the transient damage and healing behaviour of structures under a range of loading conditions. In addition, multiple and overlapping damage and healing events are considered. An illustrative example demonstrates the effects of varying the healing agent curing parameters on the computed mechanical response. The model is successfully validated using published experimental data from two series of tests on structural elements with an embedded autonomic self-healing system. The meso-scale model gives detailed information on the size and disposition of cracking and healing zones throughout an analysis time history. The model also provides an accurate means of determining the volume of healing agent required to achieve healing for all locations within a structural element. The importance of the information provided by the model for the design of self-healing cementitious material elements is highlighted.