Discussion on the suitability of concrete constitutive models for high-rate response predictions of RC structures

Despite the widespread use of concrete as a structural material, our knowledge about its exact mechanical properties and physical behavior under complex stress states is still limited. When a concrete structure is under intensive impact loadings, stress wave is generated and propagates in the structure, which results in complex stress states of the material. In these cases the material behavior at high strain rate with complex stress states must be considered for reliable predictions of structural responses. With the development of computer technology and computational mechanics, numerical simulations of concrete structures subjected to high-rate loadings such as impact and blast have become more and more common. However, reliable computer simulations depend on, among other things, the accurate concrete material model. Inaccurate material model may lead to erroneous numerical simulations. In this paper, the development of dynamic constitutive models of normal strength concrete material in recent years are reviewed, focusing on the basic theory and mechanical properties of the material. Comparisons of several widely used concrete constitutive models are presented pertaining to their suitability in predicting the response of structures subjected to shock and impact loadings.