Fracture behavior investigation of self-compacting rubberized concrete by DIC and mesoscale modeling

The Digital Image Correlation technique recorded the process of self-compacting rubberized concrete (SCRC) under a pre-notched three-point bending beam. Load-crack opening displacement curves were measured, and the fracture process zone and crack opening displacement were comparatively analyzed to investigate the effect of rubber content and notch depth. The test results show that the incorporation of rubber increases the fracture toughness and fracture energy of the self-compacting concrete, and the increased amount is related to the incorporation amount of rubber. The fracture pattern of the specimen has also changed due to the incorporation of rubber. Finally, a mesoscopic model was proposed and verified by comparing the numerical simulation and test results.