Computational Multiscale Modeling of Low-Carbon Concretes at Elevated Temperatures

On Friday, 12. September 2025 at 10 AM, the doctoral defense of Simon Peters will take. The title of his dissertation is "Computational Multiscale Modeling of Low-Carbon Concretes at Elevated Temperatures".

Abstract:
Despite decades of research, the underlining mechanism of explosive concrete spalling at elevated temperatures remains unknown. This thesis proposes a fully coupled numerical chemo-thermo-hygro-mechanical model, advanced through a micromechanical framework, providing a deeper understanding of the multiphysical nature of explosive spalling.

Key contributions include the development and validation of the micromechanical framework to analyze the binder-specific dehydration behavior, chemically induced material evolution and microstructure. This framework enhances applicability and reduces experimental calibration requirements for the well-established multiphysical macroscale model, particularly for concretes based on CO2-reduced cements.

By means of virtual parametric studies, the main findings of the thesis are: i) The binder-specific dehydration behavior of CO2-reduced cement pastes is not the primary driving mechanism behind fire-induced concrete spalling. ii) Aggregates characterized by high thermal conductivity can lead to a significant increase (even more than 35%) in pore pressure when compared to aggregates with lower thermal conductivity. iii) The dense microstructure is the primary factor driving the susceptibility of concretes containing CO2-reduced cements to fire-induced concrete spalling compared to ordinary concretes. iv) The moisture clog theory is not supported.


Promotionsaushang_Simon_Peters.pdf