pyMesoscale: A friendly python library for generating 3D concrete mesoscale models based on the local background grid method

Abstract

Mesoscale modeling of concrete and its composites has attracted a lot of researchers over the years with the promise of establishing an accurate relationship between the mesoscopic model and the macroscopic mechanical properties of concrete. The primary constraints inhibiting the widespread application of mesoscale modeling include (i) achieving high packing density with control over aggregate shape and gradation, (ii) high computational cost, (iii) accomplishing realistic interfacial transition zone, and (iv) implementing efficient aggregate intrusion detection. Besides these constraints, one major challenge is the lack of open program codes for algorithms implemented in published research papers. For example, improving, upgrading, and repurposing an existing algorithm by other researchers requires the open availability of the codes. The unavailability of these codes and the common absence of subtle implementation details in published papers hinder research progress on mesoscale modeling of concrete composites. This paper presents pyMesoscale, a Python library for generating 3D mesoscale models for concrete like composites. pyMesoscale implements the local background method, a highly effective mesoscale generation algorithm that offers a much better aggregate intrusion detection system and a high aggregate volume fraction. Developed with Python due to its smoother learning curve and beginner friendliness, pyMesoscale reduces implementation complexity for ease of use by both new and experienced researchers in the field. This paper offers the mathematical formulars and the detailed steps required to implement the generation of mesoscale geometric model of concrete and its derived mesoscale finite element model covering aggregate gradation and shape, random aggregate translation and aggregate intrusion detection.

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