Multi-scale composite finite element modeling of three-dimensional prestressed reinforced concrete structural members: Part I—A comprehensive framework

The goal of this work is to develop a complete theoretical framework for the numerical modeling of three-dimensional prestressed reinforced concrete structural members, soil mixture, and their interactions. This numerical formulation is based on the construction of a new composite finite element, in order to tackle the multi-scale problem. For this purpose, the mechanical behavior of each microstructure component material will be modeled as follows: (a) for the plain concrete (PC) and the soil mixture, an anisotropic-damage-elastoplastic model equipped with the strong discontinuity approach will be taken into account; (b) a polycrystal plasticity model, for the steel rebars and prestrssed tendons will be captured through a new strategy solution of discontinuous bifurcation problem, with the main objective to represent the multi-cracking phenomenon; (c) regarding the mechanical behavior of the aggregates and rocks (skeleton—hydro mechanic problem) in the PC and soil mixture, respectively, an anisotropic-damage-double-poro-polycrystal plasticity model equipped with softening material will be considered. An advanced failure algorithm based on the marching tetrahedron and the pseudo-termic problem will be developed. Finally, the zone that characterizes the interaction between the structural member and the soil mixture will be encrusted inside the composite finite element.