Computational prediction of restraint-induced macrocrack patterns in concrete walls

Two independent approaches to predict the restraint-induced macrocrack patterns in walls have been recently proposed by the authors [1, 2]. The model of Knoppik-Wróbel and Klemczak [1] is fully numerical whereas the approach of Schlicke and Tue [2] is a simplified engineering model on the basis of analytical considerations. Both approaches are macroscopic solutions aiming at a robust prediction of macrocrack patterns with respect to its main driving forces. Both accept a certain level of simplification to ensure a broad applicability, however, their reliability was verified by satisfying results of recalculations of practical observations, as presented e.g. in [4, 6].This contribution presents both approaches and compares the results of each for a given example. Besides computational aspects, mechanical background of the restraint-induced cracking is outlined with special regard to relevant material properties, geometry and restraint situations.