Using image processing techniques and multi-scale finite element models to predict the mechanical behavior of composite materials
摘要
Recently, the use of image processing approaches for 3D simulations and reverse engineering of objects has received considerable attention as data acquisition equipment has developed. To achieve this goal, the current research aims to develop a technique based on image processing to model concrete as a composite material composed of several parts. This paper presents a multi-scale micromechanical model developed using ABAQUS finite element (FE) software to model concrete to study its mechanical behavior by defining the mechanical properties of its constituent materials without the necessity of performing experimental tests. We performed image processing on CT-scan images of concrete cylindrical specimens to test the effectiveness of the proposed method. To perform mechanical analysis, the created maps from the image processing technique were transferred to finite element software after removing the critical points and tracing separation lines. The results of the experimental compression test conducted on manufactured concrete samples were used to validate the FE method results. According to the results, the model presented accurately simulates concrete’s mechanical behavior. As a result, it can be used to predict composite material mechanical characteristics by preparing a specimen, using a single image as input, and processing it without needing to perform expensive, time-consuming experimental tests. In terms of maximum compressive force, the average value and standard deviation of the samples are 25.1 kN and 4.6%, respectively. The meso-scale FE modeling established in the current research has an error of approximately 3.8% compared to experimental results.