Softening behaviour of concrete : numerical research

Experimental research shows, apart from the influence of multiaxial loading conditions, that softening of concrete loaded in compression is accompanied by localization of deformations. Therefore, numerical modelling of concrete material behaviour has to take this effect into account. This implies that numerical simulations of laboratory tests not only have to result in realistic force - desplacement relations in all directions, but also have to result in realistic crack patterns. The consequences of these requirements with regard to numerical modelling of concrete softening behaviour in compression, is further expounded. As a result, special attention will be given to numerical modelling strategies on different scale levels