Micro- and macro mechanical characterization of contact zones (ITZ) in recycled concrete and development of a multi-scale approach model (MiMaCMo)

• Applicants: Professorin Dr.-Ing. Luise Göbel; Dr.-Ing. Elske Linß; Dr. Christiane Rößler
• Subject Area: Construction Material Sciences, Chemistry, Building Physics
• Term: since 2022
• Project identifier: Deutsche Forschungsgemeinschaft (DFG) - Project number 500729359

The approach of the proposed project is to combine the latest analytical methods (high-resolution, tomographic, electron microscopic analysis, laser ablation, and nanoindentation) and micromechanical modeling. This makes it possible to investigate the mechanical properties, structure, and phase composition of the interfacial transition zone (ITZ) as a function of various parameters in a completely new quality. The experimental results obtained find direct input into the micromechanical modeling. This combined approach makes it possible to fundamentally understand the properties of R-concretes and make them predictable. From the information obtained, conclusions can be drawn on the influences of various properties of the recycled aggregates on the formation of the ITZ and on better preparation and pre-treatment of the aggregate. Based on the microstructural findings, it should be possible to explain variations in the macroscopic material behavior of the concretes. The experimental work forms the basis, as a result of which a multi-scale modelling approach is to be developed. In contrast to empirical approaches, which have to be recalibrated for different materials, multi-scale modeling allows for more general application to different types of R-concrete.

• DFG Programme: Research Grants
• Major Instrumentation: Nanoindenter
• Co-Investigators: Professor Dr.-Ing. Carsten Könke; Professor Dr. Tom Lahmer; Professor Dr.-Ing. Horst-Michael Ludwig