Stress and deflection of a concrete block in a four-point bending (FPB) test

Abstract

This study aims to identify the stress concentration and distribution pattern in the mid-cross-section of a concrete block in a four-point bending (FPB) test with notch and without notch using a finite element method (FEM). The research was preceded by a meshing sensitivity analysis (MSA) with verification of reference from FPB test deflection theories. The selected finite element model was then used for numerical FPB testing with load variants of 100 kN, 200 kN and 300 kN. Simulation test results show that the greatest stress and deflection of the model from the FPB simulation with notch occur in the mid-bottom area, while in the model without notch the strongest stress takes place in the mid-bottom area and the largest deflection in the mid-center area. The influence of load variation indicates that the greater the load, the greater the stress concentration and deflection around the notch. Simulation by FEM can replace real material tests by means of the finite element model applied in this study.