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Numerical simulation of structural behaviour in reinforced 3D-printed concrete shells

Lead Research Organisation: Loughborough University
Department Name: Architecture, Building and Civil Eng

Abstract

The aim involves conducting experimental and numerical analyses on 3D-printed flat-plate shell structures, taking into account the roles of defects and load directionality. The focus will be on the numerical aspect.
In order to achieve the aim set for this study, following objectives are defined:
1- Investigating different modelling approaches to numerically simulate 3D-printed concrete material
This involves understanding the impact of a homogeneous model versus a discrete one when comparing fully-dense concrete with defective ones. The goal is to comprehend the extent to which these models can capture both defect locations and the number/shape of defects to replicate the material's behavior accurately.
2- Deriving simplified considerations that guide users in choosing a modelling approach. Building on the first approach, the objective is to derive simplified considerations that guide users in choosing a homogeneous model over a discrete one, considering its ease of implementation. This involves identifying the modifications required in a homogeneous model to reproduce the material's behaviour effectively while simplifying the implementation process.
3- Recognizing the importance of directionality in 3D-printed concrete due to its anisotropic nature
This entails assessing the direction of the load in relation to the filaments' direction and evaluating the numerical strategies' ability to account for this aspect.
4- Impact of variability and scatteredness of defects in numerical models
Once we have a grasp of numerical models and directionality, the focus shifts to assessing the impact of variability and scatteredness in stochastic and reliability assessment software, such as SARA.
5- Incorporation of reinforcement into models
The subsequent step involves the incorporation of reinforcement into the existing models. This aims to enhance the complexity of the models by accounting for the influence of reinforcement on the material's behaviour.

Publications

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Studentship Projects

Project Reference Relationship Related To Start End Student Name
EP/W524487/1 30/09/2022 29/09/2028
2929535 Studentship EP/W524487/1 30/06/2023 31/12/2026 Hamed Sadaghian