Experimental investigations of strain localization in concrete using Digital Image Correlation (DIC) technique

The paper presents results of experimental investigations of strain localization in concrete using a non-destructive method called Digital Image Correlation (DIC) technique. This technique measures surface displacements from digital images. The model tests were carried out with notched concrete specimens under three-point bending. Three different beam sizes and two different concrete mixes were used. During experiments, load--deflection curves and evolution of fracture process zone were determined. The measured size effect in strength was compared with the deterministic size effect law by Bazant (1984) and experimental results by Le Bellégo et al (2003).