A new multi-scale modeling approach based on hygro-Cosserat theory for self-induced stress in hydrating cementitious mortars

► The present paper focuses on the modeling of internal stresses induced by the restrained autogenous shrinkage. ► An original multi-scale approach based on the application of hygro-Cosserat theory has been developed. ► The self-shrinkage phenomenon at early age has been observed and modeled via the experiments and a freshly defined Cosserat Size effect number.