Fractures prediction in concrete structures combining the finite and discrete element methods

This paper presents the basic concepts and application of the strategy that combines finite element methods (FEM) and discrete elements (DEM) for the study of the propagation of fractures in concrete structures. The calculation of the structure, modeled as a continuum, begins with the FEM and the DEM is used to start and grow the cracks that may appear in the structure. This methodology has been proposed by the authors in two and three dimensions. Recently, the use of one-dimensional steel elements embedded in the continuum has been added to model the reinforcement in concrete structures. The work presents different examples of application to the study of the breakage of parts and structures of concrete in mass and armed, as well as the multiple breakage of a historic structure of masonry due to an earthquake. (C) 2018 Asociacion Espanola de Ingenieria Estructural (ACHE). Published by Elsevier Espana, S.L.U. All rights reserved.