Discrete element modelling of the fresh state behavior of pervious concrete

The objective of this paper is to propose a novel numerical approach to evaluate the fresh state behavior of pervious concrete (PC). A new constitutive law applied to Discrete Element Method was developed for the simulation of the interaction between aggregates connected by fresh cement paste. Several innovative aspects regarding the type of contact model, the consideration of the contact bridge and the inclusion of the rheology coefficients were proposed. A calibration was performed with data from the literature. Furthermore, an extensive experimental program considering different shapes of aggregates, grading curves and aggregate-to-cement paste ratios was conducted to evaluate the fresh state behavior and validate the numerical models. The good fit obtained between numerical and experimental results confirm the model and the constitutive law reproduce the under uniaxial compaction, thus representing a step forward in the design and application of pervious concrete mixes.