Discrete element method modelling of elastic wave propagation in a meso-scale model of concrete

This paper deals with the accurate modelling of ultrasonic wave propagation in concrete at the mesoscopic level. This was achieved through the development of a discrete element method (DEM) model capable of simulating elastic wave signals comparable to those measured experimentally. The main objective of the work was to propose a novel methodology for constructing a meso-scale model of concrete dedicated to the analysis of elastic wave propagation. All the material parameters necessary to prepare a numerical DEM model of concrete at the mesoscopic level were explored and explained. Calibration of the mechanical parameters of the DEM model to match the experimental values involved linking the local, micro-parameters between particles with the global response of the whole sample. The developed numerical model was further used to simulate the propagation of elastic waves in a cubic concrete sample, in the frequency range of 100–500 kHz. The results of the DEM calculations showed good agreement with the experimental ultrasonic signals.