Effect of T-Stress on Crack-Tip Stress Field and Crack Propagation of Concrete

In order to predict the fracture toughness and propagation of the mixed mode fracture of concrete, the modified MTS (maximum tangential stress) criterion combined with T-stress was presented. The modified MTS criterion uses a two-parameter model (stress intensity factor K and T-stress) to describe the concrete’s fracture. Through calculation, it is found that T-stress can affect the maximum tangential stress, especially when T-stress is negative. T-stress is not taken into account in the traditional MTS criterion, which will lead to errors in calculating the maximum circumferential stress. The result of the specimen is not consistent with the predicted result of the traditional MTS. The modified criterion can provide accurate predictions for the experimental results. This provides a basis for the simulation of concrete’s fracture.