Crack Propagation Modeling in Reinforced Concrete Structures Using Digital Image Correlation and Fracture Mechanics

Abstract

Crack propagation in reinforced concrete structures is a critical concern in civil engineering due to its direct influence on structural durability, safety, and long-term service performance. Conventional crack assessment methods often provide limited accuracy in identifying crack initiation and propagation behavior under complex loading conditions, making it difficult to predict structural failure mechanisms effectively. This research presents a crack propagation modeling approach for reinforced concrete structures using digital image correlation and fracture mechanics techniques to evaluate crack development, deformation characteristics, and structural damage progression. The proposed study integrates digital image correlation (DIC)–based full-field displacement measurement with fracture mechanics principles to analyze crack initiation and propagation under static and dynamic loading conditions. Experimental investigations are conducted on reinforced concrete specimens subjected to varying load intensities to capture surface strain distribution, crack opening displacement, and stress concentration behavior in real time. Fracture mechanics–based numerical modeling and finite element analysis are further employed to simulate crack growth patterns and evaluate structural response characteristics. The influence of reinforcement configuration, material properties, and loading conditions on crack propagation behavior is systematically analyzed. Performance evaluation is conducted using parameters such as crack growth rate, fracture energy, stress intensity factor, displacement field accuracy, load-carrying capacity, and structural stiffness degradation.