An objective cracking criterion for the analysis of concrete dams

Abstract

Cracking analysis by the finite element method may be accomplished using a continuum damage theory, but results are strongly affected by the adopted finite element mesh. A reduced tensile strength has been proposed in order to obtain objective results; however this approach may still be dependent on the adopted finite element mesh. An alternative model for concrete cracking, which is independent of the finite element mesh and especially suitable for the analysis of concrete dams, is proposed in this work.