Analysis of the Mechanical Response of Concrete Using Numerical Simulation with Abaqus Software to Support Engineering Decision-Making for Coastal Structures
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.65405/dqtsv635Keywords:
Concrete sand; compressive strength; mechanical response; numerical simulation; coastal structuresAbstract
This study evaluates the effect of a gradual reduction in compressive strength on the mechanical response of concrete containing three local sand types: Shatt Al Hensher, Zliten, and Sidi Al Sayeh, using numerical simulation in Abaqus. Published experimental data at 28 days were used to develop and verify the numerical model. Additional numerical cases were then generated by reducing the compressive strength by 10%, 20%, and 30%, while keeping the remaining model conditions unchanged. The verification showed good agreement between the numerical and experimental results, with a mean absolute relative error of 1.685% in compressive strength. The results revealed a consistent decline in both peak load and maximum stress, while maintaining the overall characteristics of the stress–strain curves and preserving the post-peak strain-softening behavior. This reflects the stability of the material's mechanical response despite the degradation of its compressive strength. Furthermore, comparative analysis demonstrated the superiority of Shat Al-Hanshir sand, which achieved the highest level of mechanical performance across all reduction scenarios, followed by Zliten sand, whereas Sidi As-Sayeh sand recorded the lowest values. These findings support the selection of Shat Al-Hanshir sand as a strategic, high-performance option for coastal structures
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