Determination of the fracture parameters of the Double-K model using weight functions of split-tension specimens

Splitting tests on cubical, cylindrical and diagonal cubic concrete samples were analyzed to determine the fracture parameters for the Double-K model. Using the boundary element method, the stress intensity factors of splitting specimens subjected to four equal point loads on the notch was first derived. Subsequently, the universal four-term weight functions of these specimens were determined. To investigate how well the splitting tests were simulated by the Double-K model, the results of the splitting tests were compared with the results of beam tests using data found in the literature. It was observed that the results for the splitting specimens were more uniform than those for beams.

► Splitting tests on cubical and cylindrical samples were analyzed for the Double-K. ► The existing LEFM formulas of the split-tension specimens were improved. ► The weight functions of the splitting specimens were derived. ► The results for the splitting specimens were more uniform than those for beams. ► The initiation SIF values increase as increasing the maximum aggregate size.