2D mesoscopic modelling of bar–concrete bond

The degradation of the steel–concrete connection is a complex phenomenon depending on both the interface behaviour and the surrounding concrete damage. The purpose of this paper is to study bar/concrete interface behaviour by performing a numerical analysis at the mesoscopic scale. The interest of this approach is to provide local information unavailable from experimental investigations. The presented results concern the 2D modelling of LMT pull-out test (to identify bond and friction) with the assumption of perfect bond between the mesoscopic mortar and the steel bar. The influences of bar roughness and the lateral stresses were analysed.

► A study of the steel/concrete interface behaviour is performed at the mesoscopic scale. ► The influences of bar roughness, the lateral stresses are analysed. ► The interfacial transition zone is not modelled; a diffuse meshing methos is adopted. ► The global behaviour, damage distribution and crack pattern are accurately described.