ABSTRACT

Abstract A survey is presented of global characteristics of damage evolution in connection with stress-strain behaviour and engineering mechanical properties of concrete. Aspects of experimental assessment of such characteristics are discussed. The paramount influence exerted by the particle-matrix interface is outlined. Effects due to imposed modifications of interphase morphology, such as by mineral admix­ tures, are approached within the framework outlined. Keywords:Interface, Bond, Damage, Stereology, Cracking.