LEUNG, Christopher K.Y.
Hong Kong University of Science and Technology
Hong Kong - China SAR

LI, Victor C.
The University of Michigan
Ann Arbor - MI - USA

SHAH, Surendra P.
Nothwestern University
Evanston, Illinois - USA

Abstract
Over the past two decades, there have been significant developments in the fracture mechanics of cementitious materials. Currently, a wealth of knowledge has been accrued on the physical mechanisms of fracture, the relevant material parameters and their determination, the modeling and analysis of fracture failure as well as the monitoring of fracture processes. With the existing knowledge, fracture mechanics can be employed as a useful ‘tool’ in engineering applications and design. In this mini-symposium, we hope to put together a series of talks that provides the critical link between scientific investigations on fracture of cementitious materials and practical applications in material design and structural engineering. Specifically, the following sessions will be organized:
(1) Crack and damage monitoring in structures
The proper characterization of damage and cracking is important for the condition monitoring of structures, which is essential for proper maintenance and life-time prediction. Here, we will solicit papers on monitoring techniques that are applicable to real structures.

(2) Fracture and transport properties
The durability of concrete structures is strongly affected by the transport properties of concrete. In conventional design, concrete structures are allowed to crack in the tensile zone. The effect of cracking on the transport properties is an important issue that is not yet fully understood. This session will cover both experimental and theoretical investigations aiming at quantifying the relation between fracture and transport properties.

(3) Novel approaches for failure and life-time prediction
For failure analysis under static or impact loading, or life-time prediction under cyclic loading and creep, proper models have to be developed. For this session, we are particularly interested in novel models for various loading conditions, and the application of such models to structural analysis

(4) Fracture mechanics and the development of high-performance cementitious materials
Material development has conventionally been based on a trial-and-error approach. Knowing the relationship between material failure and micro-properties, physically-based guidelines for performance improvement can be derived. The present session will focus on the ‘engineering’ of high-performance materials based on fracture mechanics concepts.

(5) Application of fracture mechanics to the design of concrete structures
The design of concrete structures has traditionally been based on strength approaches, supplemented by empirical equations obtained from extensive laboratory testing. In this session, we will solicit papers on the application of fracture mechanics to develop better approaches for the design of various concrete components.