Numerical modeling of concrete beams subjected to partial wetting and drying cycles

Abstract

Concrete structures are commonly subjected to cycles of wetting and drying, which can have a significant impact on their behavior. However, experimental data on the effects of wetting and drying on concrete beams are scarce. This study presents the results of a 4-year experimental program on 2.5 m span concrete beams with heights of 100 mm, 150 mm, and 200 mm subjected to one-sided wetting and drying cycles. Vertical deflection of the beams was monitored throughout the experiment, and moisture mass balance was measured on companion specimens.The behavior of the specimens was experimentally assessed, and subsequently numerical models using coupled hygromechanical finite element simulations were developed. The purpose of the simulations was to verify the prediction capabilities of the established constitutive models for moisture transport and creep and shrinkage of concrete and, if needed, to propose necessary corrections to the constitutive models.