Multiscale modeling of the elastic moduli of lightweight aggregate concretes: numerical estimation and experimental validation

Abstract

This study concerns the numerical simulation of effective elasticity modulus of lightweight concrete by means of Asymptotic Expansion Homogenization. Taking as input data the elastic properties of the aggregate and mortar employed in the concrete composition, it is possible to evaluate a homogenized elastic tensor for the resulting material. The present work deals with lightweight concretes made of the same mortar and five families of low density aggregates, with varying aggregate volumetric fractions. The multiscale model employed to represent the geometric and mechanical properties of the concrete is characterized by a great deal of simplicity. The validation of the adopted procedure consisted of comparisons of the numerical results with experimental measurements, showing good agreement.