Effect of Aggregate Type on the Concrete Matrix/Aggregates Interface and its Influence on the Overall Mechanical Behavior. A Numerical Study.

Abstract

This paper investigates the effect of siliceous, limestone and plastic aggregates on the compressive behavior of concrete. Firstly, the matrix/aggregates interface is characterized using a scanning electronic microscope. Compressive test is then simulated on a 3D numerical concrete using finite element method. The influence of the matrix/aggregates interface quality is quantified. The results give a new insight and help on the understanding of the contribution of the nature of the aggregate on the overall mechanical behavior of concretes.