Tensile behavior simulation of ECC/SHCC at subzero temperatures based on a fiber/interface combination constitutive model

The performance degradation of Engineered Cementitious Composites/Strain-hardening cementitious composites (ECC/SHCC) at subzero temperatures is becoming a widespread concern. However, experimental testing and data acquisition in cold environments are very difficult and demanding. It is an inevitable trend to use numerical simulation for research. In this paper, a finite element model based on a fiber/interface combination constitutive model was proposed to simulate the tensile behavior of SHCC at subzero temperatures. While the validity of the model was verified using 16 groups of tests, the reduction in multiple cracking and the increased proportion of fiber and interface failures induced with decreasing temperature were explored. The effect of matrix cracking strength on the tensile properties of SHCC was further compared. It was found that a lower matrix cracking strength could help SHCC to maintain high ductility at −60 °C, and the tensile strain capacity could reach 6.58 %. Therefore, it is crucial to control the matrix cracking strength in the design and application of SHCC in cold regions. The simulation method in this paper is expected to provide new insights for the development of high ductility SHCC in winter climate.