Author(s)

C. Tasdemir, M.A. Tasdemir, F.D. Lydon & B.I.G. Barr

Abstract

Influence of microsilica on the strain softening response of concrete C. Tasdemir," M.A. Tasdemir," F.D. Lydon/ B.I.G. Barr* " Faculty of Civil Engineering, Istanbul Technical University 80626 Maslak, Istanbul, Turkey * Division of Civil Engineering, University of Wales College o/ Cordif, f O Bo% 9gJ, Car^f CF2 ^YF, [^^ ABSTRACT The effect of microsilica and aggregate size on the strain localization, softening response and brittleness of high strength concretes was investigated by measuring the fracture energy Gp and the characteristic length Ich- Based on the fracture tests and microscopic studies at the aggregate matrix interface, it is concluded that in concretes which contain microsilica, the cracks usually travel through the aggregates; the interfacial zone for these concretes becomes stronger and more homogeneous, and the fracture occurs in a more brittle manner. However, in concretes without microsilica, the cracks usually develop around the coarse aggr

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