Boundary element simulation of size effect in quasi-brittle aggregate materials

A nonlinear multi-zone boundary element method is applied to simulate the size effect of a series of geome trically similar three-point-bend specimens. The material in which particles are randomly dispersed in a relatively hard matrix can bo applicable to various aggregate materials as well as unidirectionally reinforced fiber composites in the transverse plane. A single edge macrocrack and interfacial microcracks randomly distributed between particles and ma trix are prescribed as initial defects. The shape, size and location of the fracture process zone (FPZ) are realistically simulated and described. The nominal strength of the material is in agreement with the Bazant size effect law. In addi tion, the results show that microcracking is one of the most important micromechanisms for the size effect in aggregate materials.