Continuous-discontinuous element method for simulating three-dimensional reinforced concrete structures

Reinforced concrete structures experience crack propagation, bond-slip, and accompanied stress redistributions when subjected to high loading levels, as a typical continuous-discontinuous process. This work proposes a numerical system composed of discrete blocks, springs, and one-dimensional bolt elements within the continuous-discontinuous element method (CDEM) framework. This hybrid finite-discrete element method is enhanced by explicit integration. By simulating the pull-out tests, the mechanical interactions between bars and concrete are determined. Numerical studies demonstrate the effectiveness of the proposed method in capturing the process of multiple crack propagation and bond-slip in three-dimensional reinforced concrete structures, such as columns and beams.