A cohesive zone model for the characterization of adhesion between cement paste and aggregates

International audienceThe influence of an Interfacial Transition Zone on mechanical behavior of concrete has been established by many authors. Several experimental studies have highlighted the weak mechanical properties of Interfacial Transition Zone due mainly to higher porosity than other phases, or to the presence of initial damage at the interface between paste and aggregates. Thus, it is necessary to take this zone into account when modelling the mechanical behavior of concrete, particularly outside of the elastic domain. Various analytical or numerical methods have been proposed, and some of these replace the physical representation of an Interfacial Transition Zone, by an imperfect interface between paste and aggregates, and an adhesion model with specific mechanical properties. In this work a cohesive zone model coupling adhesion, friction and unilateral contact is applied to a finite element model of a cement paste-aggregate composite, designed to test interface mechanical properties. Cohesive zone model parameters are calibrated using an experimental study of the same composite, submitted to mechanical loading during hydration and leaching of cement paste. This numerical approach allows modelling of the mechanical behavior of a composite until the tensile strength is reached. Moreover evolution of cohesive zone model parameters during hydration and leaching, shows a partial adhesion on contact surfaces between cement paste and aggregate. This could explain initial interface damage