Artículos (Mecánica de Medios Continuos y Teoría de Estructuras)

URI permanente para esta colecciónhttps://hdl.handle.net/11441/11397

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  • Acceso AbiertoArtículo
    Inverse modeling of heterogeneous ECM mechanical properties in nonlinear 3DTFM
    (Elsevier, 2025) Apolinar Fernández, Alejandro; Barrasa Fano, Jorge; Van Oosterwyck, Hans; Sanz Herrera, José Antonio; Mecánica de Medios Continuos y Teoría de Estructuras; Ministerio de Ciencia e Innovación (MICIN). España
    Accurate characterization of cellular tractions is crucial for understanding cell-extracellular matrix (ECM) mechanical interactions and their implications in pathology-related situations, yet their direct measurement in experimental setups remains challenging. Traction Force Microscopy (TFM) has emerged as a key methodology to reconstruct traction fields from displacement data obtained via microscopic imaging techniques. While traditional TFM methods assume homogeneous and static ECM properties, the dynamic nature of the ECM through processes such as enzyme–induced collagen degradation or cell-mediated collagen deposition i.e. ECM remodeling, requires approaches that account for spatio-temporal evolution of ECM stiffness heterogeneity and other mechanical properties. In this context, we present a novel inverse methodology for 3DTFM, capable of reconstructing spatially heterogeneous distributions of the ECM’s stiffness. Our approach formulates the problem as a PDE-constrained inverse method which searches for both displacement and the stiffness map featured in the selected constitutive law. The elaborated numerical algorithm is integrated then into an iterative Newton–Raphson/Finite Element Method (NR/FEM) framework, bypassing the need for external iterative solvers. We validate our methodology using in silico 3DTFM cases based on real cell geometries, modeled within a nonlinear hyperelastic framework suitable for collagen hydrogels. The performance of our approach is evaluated across different noise levels, and compared versus the commonly used iterative L-BFGS algorithm. Besides the novelty of our formulation, we demonstrate the efficacy of our approach both in terms of accuracy and CPU time efficiency.
  • Acceso AbiertoArtículo
    Acoustic Wave Scattering By Null-thickness Bodies With Complex Geometry
    (WIT Press, 2024) Romero Ordóñez, Antonio; Velázquez-Mata, Rocío; Tadeu, Antonio; Galvín, Pedro; Universidad de Sevilla. Departamento de Mecánica de Medios Continuos y Teoría de Estructuras; Ministerio de Ciencia e Innovación (MICIN). España; Consejería de Economía, Conocimiento, Empresas y Universidad. Junta de Andalucía; Centro Informático Científico de Andalucía (CICA)
    This paper proposes a general formulation of the BEM based on the Burton–Miller method to study scattering wave propagation by null-thickness bodies with complex geometry. This approach allows the use of arbitrary high order elements and exact boundary geometry. We use the Bézier–Bernstein form of a polynomial as an approximation basis to represent both geometry and field variables. The solution of the element interpolation problem in the Bézier–Bernstein space defines generalised Lagrange interpolation functions that are used as element shape functions. The proposed procedure consists of a new quadrature rule for the accurate evaluation of integral kernels in the sense of the Cauchy principal and the Hadamard finite part by an exclusively numerical procedure.
  • Acceso AbiertoArtículo
    Experimental and numerical flexural-torsional performance of thin-walled open-ended steel vertical pile foundations subjected to lateral loads
    (MDPI, 2023-07-10) Pérez, José Antonio; Reyes Rodríguez, Antonio Manuel; Sánchez González, Estíbaliz; Ríos Jiménez, José David; Universidad de Sevilla. Departamento de Mecánica de Medios Continuos y Teoría de Estructuras; Universidad de Sevilla. TEP972: Mecánica de Materiales y Estructuras
    This research investigates the effects of torsional moments on the mechanical behavior of thin-walled open-ended vertical pile foundations subjected to lateral wind loads. The aim of this research is to determine and quantify the errors using traditional design methods and provide more effective alternatives. The warping and torsion effect generated over the piles due to the resultant lateral load impact outside the shear center is analyzed in field tests. Complementarily, a two-dimensional finite element model based on the simple bending stress–strain state, as well as a three-dimensional finite element model considering torsional effects, were implemented and their results analyzed. Finally, a comparative analysis between the in-field lateral loading tests and the finite element model approaches was established by comparing load–displacement curves and using a non-linear Wrinkle model of the soil. Additionally, correlations between the experimental and finite element model errors for the cross-sections pile with a different torsional constant and torsional susceptibility index are shown. From the results, it has been ascertained that the slender thin-walled open-ended pile foundations are particularly sensitive to small load deviations from their center of gravity; this leads to the fact that the slenderer the load and the greater its eccentricity, the more it affects the torsion and warping of the pile. Calculation methodologies usually consider a simple in-plane bending behavior, which leads to errors between 44 and 58% in comparison with the experimental results obtained.
  • Acceso AbiertoArtículo
    Numerical and experimental study of the optimal specimen geometry for direct tension strength tests in high tensile strength fiber reinforced concrete
    (Nature Research, 2025-03-28) Vicente Cabrera, Miguel Ángel; Mena Alonso, Álvaro; González Cabrera, Dorys Carmen; Ruiz López, Gonzalo; Cifuentes-Bulté, Héctor; Leiva Fernández, Carlos; Yu, Rena C.; Mínguez Algarra, Jesús; Universidad de Sevilla. Departamento de Mecánica de Medios Continuos y Teoría de Estructuras; Universidad de Sevilla. Departamento de Ingeniería Química y Ambiental; Ministerio de Economía y Competitividad (MINECO). España; Universidad de Sevilla. TEP972: Mecánica de Materiales y Estructuras; Universidad de Sevilla. TEP142: Ingeniería de Residuos
    The accurate determination of the tensile strength of concrete is a topic of growing interest, especially driven by the new ultra-high tensile strength fiber-reinforced concretes. However, this is a complex task, as traditional methods provide inconsistent results (both splitting tensile test and 3-point bending test). The most robust method is the direct tensile test. However, in concrete, it poses a technical challenge that has not yet been satisfactorily solved. The aim of this study is the design of a test specimen that maximizes the percentage of successful failure and also allows a viable anchorage solution to the load application equipment, especially for high and ultra-high tensile strength concretes. An optimized geometry of a bone-shaped specimen that maximizes the probability of collapse occurring at the central neck is presented. First, a mathematical function of the generatrix of the bone-shape specimen is presented. The behavior of the solution is also analyzed numerically and statistically, comparing it with other commonly used solutions for direct tensile tests. Additionally, the design, fabrication, and calibration of a tailored cardan joint for load centering, thus minimizing its eccentricity and the dispersion of the results. Finally, the results of a static test campaign carried out on six carbon-fiber reinforced high tensile strength concrete specimens. The proposed bone-shaped specimen shows a much higher percentage of successful failures than the other specimen geometries commonly used for tensile testing, which improves the quality of tensile characterization test campaigns for high and ultra-high tensile strength concretes.
  • Acceso AbiertoArtículo
    On-the-fly meanfield transition-state theory for diffusive molecular dynamics
    (Elsevier, 2025-08) Molinos Pérez, Miguel; Ortiz, Michael; Ariza Moreno, María del Pilar; Universidad de Sevilla. Departamento de Mecánica de Medios Continuos y Teoría de Estructuras; Ministerio de Ciencia e Innovación (MICIN). España; California Institute of Technology; Deutsche Forschungsgemeinschaft / German Research Foundation (DFG); Universidad de Sevilla. TEP972: Mecánica de Materiales y Estructuras
    We apply transition state theory to derive atomic-level master equations for mass transport from empirical interatomic potentials within the Diffusive Molecular Dynamics (DMD) framework. We show that meanfield approximation provides an exceedingly efficient and accurate means of computing free-energy barriers in arbitrary local atomic configurations, thus enabling long-term DMD ‘on-the-fly’ and on the sole basis of an underlying interatomic potential, without additional modeling assumptions. We apply and validate the resulting meanfield DMD paradigm in simulations of processes of hydrogenation and dehydrogenation of Mg using Angular-Dependent interatomic Potentials (ADP). We show that meanfield DMD correctly predicts hydrogen diffusivities in hcp Mg and vacancy diffusivities in rutile MgH2. We demonstrate the ability of meanfield DMD to predict evolution through calculations concerned with dilute concentrations of hydrogen in hcp Mg, and with dilute concentrations of hydrogen vacancies in rutile MgH2, including off-stoichiometry hydrogen concentrations and temperature effects. Remarkably, the time steps required by DMD are up to six orders of magnitude larger than those required by Molecular Dynamics (MD), which demonstrates the overwhelming superiority of the DMD paradigm in simulations of phenomena occurring on the diffusive time scale.
  • Acceso AbiertoArtículo
    Evaluation of the physical and mechanical behaviour of rammed earth by incorporation of recycled glass
    (Elsevier, 2025) Canivell, Jacinto; Martín del Río, Juan Jesús; Solís Muñiz, Mario; Rodríguez Mariscal, José Daniel; Flores Alés, Vicente; Pontiga Romero, Francisco de Paula; Universidad de Sevilla. Departamento de Construcciones Arquitectónicas II (ETSIE); Universidad de Sevilla. Departamento de Mecánica de Medios Continuos y Teoría de Estructuras; Universidad de Sevilla. Departamento de Física Aplicada II; Universidad de Sevilla. TEP211: Conservación Preventiva del Patrimonio Construido; Universidad de Sevilla. TEP198: Materiales y Construcción; Universidad de Sevilla. FQM253: Electrohidrodinámica y Medios Granulares Cohesivos
    Compacted soil walls provide environmental benefits due to their low impact and embodied energy. Although their mechanical strength is lower than other materials, they meet safety requirements. Current trends promote circular economy solutions, such as waste reuse. This study assesses recycled glass in lime- and cement-stabilized rammed earth as a replacement for natural sand to enhance waste management and soil properties. Ultrasonic inspection confirms increased compressive strength and density, especially in cement-stabilized mixtures. Statistical analysis reveals a direct correlation between crushed glass content and improved properties. The optimal replacement rate is 75% for lime and 100% for cement. The superior performance in cement-stabilized samples is due to a pozzolanic reaction absent in lime mixtures. Both binders show significant reductions in thermal conductivity, improving energy efficiency without compromising structural integrity. Ultrasound proves reliable for predicting compressive strength and stiffness, supporting the viability of this approach. The incorporation of recycled glass in compacted soil offers a sustainable construction alternative, balancing environmental benefits with enhanced mechanical and thermal performance.
  • Acceso AbiertoArtículo
    Particle size effect on the strength of particle-reinforced composites. Experimental analysis and comparison with the coupled criterion
    (Acad Sciences, 2025-05-20) García García, Israel; Justo Estebaranz, Jesús; Zurita Van Dinter, Alejandro; Mantic, Vladislav; Universidad de Sevilla. Departamento de Mecánica de Medios Continuos y Teoría de Estructuras; Ministerio de Ciencia e Innovación (MICIN). España; European Commission (EC). Fondo Europeo de Desarrollo Regional (FEDER); Universidad de Sevilla. TEP131: Grupo de Elasticidad y Resistencia de Materiales
    Particle-reinforced composites are widely used in industry, primarily due to their versatile fabrication methods and the ability to tailor their properties. In many cases, extensive experimental campaigns are required to determine the optimal characteristics of the system to enhance specific properties. Micromechanical models can serve as a useful alternative or initial approach during the material design process. One of the easiest characteristics that can be modified is the size of the reinforcement, which, according to some models and preliminary evidence, can significantly affect the mechanical properties of the material. The objective of this work is to experimentally evaluate the size effect of reinforcement on the composite strength and to compare it with the predictions by the coupled criterion of finite fracture mechanics (CCFFM). A secondary objective is to visualize the initiation of the failure mechanism,which starts at the particlematrix interface and progresses toward a crack that splits the specimen. To achieve this, a new specimen design is proposed along with an optimized fabrication procedure. The tests were recorded using a highspeed camera, which allowed for the visualization of crack initiation at the particle-matrix interface. The experimental results show a strong size effect, where smaller particles correspond to higher apparent strength. The results are in relatively good agreement with the predictions of the CC-FFM.
  • Acceso AbiertoArtículo
    Optimizing constituent ranges in self-compacting steel-fiber reinforced concrete: A methodological approach
    (Elsevier, 2025-07-04) De la Rosa Velasco, Ángel; Ruiz López, Gonzalo; Poveda Bautista, Elisa; Cifuentes-Bulté, Héctor; Universidad de Sevilla. Departamento de Mecánica de Medios Continuos y Teoría de Estructuras; Ministerio de Ciencia, Innovación y Universidades (MICIU). España; Universidad de Castilla-La Mancha; European Commission (EC). Fondo Europeo de Desarrollo Regional (FEDER); Universidad de Sevilla. TEP972: Mecánica de Materiales y Estructuras
    This paper presents a refined methodology for the design of self-compacting steel-fiber reinforced concrete (SCSFRC), building upon our previous work [Construction and Building Materials 189 (2018) 409–419]. The approach combines rheological modeling and micromechanical principles to ensure fluidity, stability, and mechanical performance. Specifically, it incorporates a phase-wise application of the Krieger–Dougherty equation, the theory of excess layer thickness, and the concept of total relative packing fraction. A total of 25 SCSFRC mixtures were specifically designed, produced, and tested to explore a wide range of rheological and mechanical conditions. From this experimental campaign, optimal ranges for the main constituent materials are identified. These ranges offer a valuable reference for mix designers, independently of whether the proposed methodology is applied. The framework contributes to a more rational and consistent design of SCSFRC, particularly with hooked steel fibers, and supports industrial practice by enabling more precise, performance-oriented concrete formulations with reduced reliance on empirical trial-and-error.
  • Acceso AbiertoArtículo
    Multiscale characterization of the mechanics of curved fibered structures with application to biological and engineered materials
    (Elsevier, 2025-04-01) Sanz Herrera, José Antonio; Apolinar Fernández, Alejandro; JIménez Aires, A.; Pérez Alcántara, P.; Domínguez Abascal, Jaime; Reina Romo, Esther; Universidad de Sevilla. Departamento de Mecánica de Medios Continuos y Teoría de Estructuras; Universidad de Sevilla. Departamento de Ingeniería Mecánica y Fabricación; Ministerio de Ciencia e Innovación (MICIN). España; Agencia Estatal de Investigación. España; European Commission (EC). Fondo Europeo de Desarrollo Regional (FEDER); Junta de Andalucía; Universidad de Sevilla. TEP245: Ingeniería de las Estructuras; Universidad de Sevilla. TEP111: Ingeniería Mecánica
    Curved fibered structures are ubiquitous in nature and the mechanical behavior of these materials is of pivotal importance in the biomechanics and mechanobiology fields. We develop a multiscale formulation to characterize the macroscopic mechanical nonlinear behavior from the microstructure of fibered matrices. From the analysis of the mechanics of a randomly curved single fiber, a fibered matrix model is built to determine the macroscopic behavior following a homogenization approach. The model is tested for tensile, compression and shear loads in different applications. The presented approach naturally recovers instabilities at compression as well as the strain stiffening regime, which are observed experimentally in the mechanical behavior of collagen matrices. Indeed, it was found that the bending energy associated to fiber unrolling, is the most important source of energy developed by fibers for the analyzed cases in tensile and shear in all deformation regions (except the strain stiffening region), whereas bending energy dominates at compression too during buckling. The proposed computational framework can also be used to perform multiscale simulations in engineered fibered materials. Therefore, the developed methodology may be an interesting and complementary tool to characterize the nonlinear behavior and evolution of curved fibered structures present in biology and engineering.
  • Acceso AbiertoArtículo
    Multi-scale toughening of UHPC: synergistic effects of carbon microfibers and nanotubes
    (MDPI, 2025-04-21) Ruiz Martínez, Jaime Delfino; Ríos Jiménez, José David; Cifuentes-Bulté, Héctor; Leiva Fernández, Carlos; Universidad de Sevilla. Departamento de Ingeniería Química y Ambiental; Universidad de Sevilla. Departamento de Mecánica de Medios Continuos y Teoría de Estructuras; Ministerio de Ciencia e Innovación (MICIN). España; Universidad de Sevilla. TEP972: Mecánica de Materiales y Estructuras; Universidad de Sevilla. TEP142: Ingeniería de Residuos
    This study investigates multi-scale reinforcement of Ultra-High-Performance Concrete through targeted modifications of its mechanical and fracture-resistant properties via carbon microfibers and carbon nanotubes. The research employed comprehensive characterization techniques including workability tests, mercury porosimetry for microscale porosity analysis, and X-ray tomography for macro-scale pore evaluation. Mechanical performance was assessed through compression strength, tensile strength, and fracture energy measurements. Results demonstrated significant performance enhancements testing UHPC samples with 6 mm carbon microfibers (9 kg/m3) and varying carbon nanotubes dosages (0.11–0.54 wt%). The addition of carbon microfibres improved compressive strength by 12%, while incorporating 0.54 wt% carbon nanotubes further increased strength by 24%. Remarkably, the combined reinforcement strategy yielded a 313% increase in tensile strength compared to the reference mixture. The synergistic effect of carbon fibers and carbon nanotubes proved particularly effective in enhancing concrete performance. This multi-scale reinforcement approach presents a promising alternative to traditional steel fiber reinforcement, offering superior mechanical properties and potential advantages in corrosive environments.
  • Acceso AbiertoArtículo
    Influence of the 90/0 ply thickness ratio on the stresses associated with the edge effect phenomenon
    (Elsevier, 2025-08) Sánchez-Carmona, Serafín; Barroso Caro, Alberto; Correa Montoto, Elena; Universidad de Sevilla. Departamento de Mecánica de Medios Continuos y Teoría de Estructuras; Ministerio de Ciencia, Innovación y Universidades (MICIU). España; Universidad de Sevilla. TEP131: Grupo de Elasticidad y Resistencia de Materiales
    The scale effect phenomenon has shed light on the thermo-mechanical behaviour of ultra-thin plies. These laminas in cross-ply laminates (under certain 90/0 thickness ratios) have given rise to a relevant edge effect phenomenon, causing significant through-the-thickness stress in the weakest ply along its free edge under both thermal and (0-longitudinal tension) mechanical loading. Thus, a biaxial stress state must be considered to analyse what happens along the free edges from experimental samples to structural components, such as drill holes. A parametric numerical analysis is performed taking three different features into account: the thickness of the ply blocks, the cross-ply stacking sequences and the type of fibre, either carbon or glass. The numerical predictions are in accordance with experimental results, which are obtained under a thermal cooldown. The biaxial stress state predictions could be used in future numerical procedures including the presence of components’ free edges.
  • Acceso AbiertoArtículo
    A closed-form expression derived from virtual testing for structural optimization of L-flange bolted connections
    (Elsevier, 2024-10) Cabrera González, Juan Antonio; Blázquez Gámez, Antonio; París Carballo, Federico; Gallardo, R.; Universidad de Sevilla. Departamento de Mecánica de Medios Continuos y Teoría de Estructuras; European Commission (EC). Fondo Europeo de Desarrollo Regional (FEDER); Junta de Andalucía; Universidad de Sevilla. TEP131: Grupo de Elasticidad y Resistencia de Materiales
    L-flange bolted joints are extensively used in different industrial sectors, such as wind turbine towers, rocket stages, or pipelines. Typically, the design of these connections is based on analytical expressions derived from simplified beam models. However, the influence of specific factors such as curvature, adjacent bolts, or joint separation are not addressed within conventional approaches. Finite element models offer the advantage of comprehensively accounting for these effects and the interaction between different failure mechanisms. Nevertheless, their industrial implementation requires significant computational resources, in contrast to the use of analytical formulae. In this context, this paper proposes a new framework for designing optimized L-flange bolted connections, based on general closed-form expressions that rely on validated numerical results. Three expressions, each one related to a particular failure mechanism, are derived from parametric simulations varying the most influencing parameters in the structural behavior. The generated equations can be easily implemented to guide the design process towards an optimal configuration, taking advantage of beneficial effects not addressed within classical approaches. A closer prediction of the actual load capacity of the joint can be obtained, providing a tool that allows engineers to make more reliable and economical designs.
  • Acceso AbiertoArtículo
    Damage mechanisms in hybrid composites: experimental characterisation and energy-based numerical analysis
    (Italian Group of Fracture (IGF), 2025-07) Parente, João M.; Ferreira, Luis Miguel Marques; Reis, Paulo Nobre Balbis; Universidad de Sevilla. Departamento de Mecánica de Medios Continuos y Teoría de Estructuras; Fundação para a Ciência e a Tecnologia. Portugal; Ministerio de Ciencia, Innovación y Universidades (MICIU). España; Universidad de Sevilla. TEP131: Grupo de Elasticidad y Resistencia de Materiales
    This study analyses the failure mechanisms of bilayer hybrid composites, consisting of carbon and glass fibres embedded in an epoxy matrix, under bending loads. The objective is to evaluate how different hybrid configurations influence failure evolution and mechanical performance. To achieve this, specimens are submitted to 3-point bending tests, and 3D finite element models are developed to simulate the experimental setup. The numerical models incorporate a continuum damage mechanics model to capture intralaminar failure and a surface-based cohesive behaviour for interlaminar damage. The results show that hybrid laminates exhibit intermediate strength and displacement values compared to nonhybrid carbon and glass laminates, with the positioning of glass fibers significantly affecting bending force and displacement. Intralaminar damage is the primary failure mechanism in all configurations, followed by delamination. Additionally, placing glass fibers on the compression side reduces the overall damage, whereas placing them on the tensile side increases intralaminar failure before reaching the peak load. These findings contribute to optimizing the design of hybrid composites for bending applications by providing information about the relationship between material configuration and failure mechanisms, ultimately improving their structural efficiency and durability in engineering applications.
  • Acceso AbiertoArtículo
    Numerical analysis of the structural performance of adhesive T-joints under bending loads
    (Elsevier, 2025-08) Ferreira, Luis Miguel Marques; Campilho, R.D.S.G.; Muñoz-Reja Moreno, María del Mar; Reis, Paulo Nobre Balbis; Universidad de Sevilla. Departamento de Mecánica de Medios Continuos y Teoría de Estructuras; Fundação para a Ciência e a Tecnologia. Portugal; Ministerio de Ciencia, Innovación y Universidades (MICIU). España; Universidad de Sevilla. TEP131: Grupo de Elasticidad y Resistencia de Materiales; Universidad de Sevilla. TEP963: Ingeniería de Estructuras y Materiales
    T-joints are a good alternative to conventional adhesive joints, such as single-lap joints, due to their ability to efficiently transfer bending, compressive, shear, and tensile loads between the T-profile stiffener and the base plate, all while maintaining cost-effectiveness. However, for widespread adoption, a comprehensive understanding of the joint strength and damage mechanisms is essential. Therefore, this study aims to numerically analyse the structural performance of adhesive T-joints subjected to 3-point bending loads using two-dimensional (2D) finite element models, and cohesive zone modelling (CZM) to simulate the behaviour of the adhesive. CZM validation was also accomplished by comparing the joints' behaviour with experimental data. Numerically, peaks of peel stresses at the overlap edges were observed, with sharp gradients toward the inner bond region, as well as shear stresses due to the geometric discontinuity. Adhesives with higher stiffness provide higher peak values of peel and shear stresses, while more ductile ones lead to higher peak loads. The CZM was successfully validated with experiments, and a correlation was observed between energy dissipation and damage propagation, according to a non-symmetrical pattern, and for conditions that minimize the system's functional energy.
  • Acceso AbiertoArtículo
    Enhancing the matrix-fiber bond in ultra-high-performance fiber-reinforced concrete using a high performance plasticizer. Impact on the flowability, physical and mechanical properties
    (Elsevier, 2025) Ruiz Martínez, Jaime D.; Ríos Jiménez, José David; Pérez-Soriano, Eva María; Cifuentes Bulté, Héctor; Leiva Fernández, Carlos; Universidad de Sevilla. Departamento de Ingeniería Química y Ambiental; Universidad de Sevilla. Departamento de Mecánica de Medios Continuos y Teoría de Estructuras; Universidad de Sevilla. Departamento de Ingeniería y Ciencia de los Materiales y del Transporte; Ministerio de Ciencia e Innovación (MICIN). España; Universidad de Sevilla. TEP972: Mecánica de Materiales y Estructuras; Universidad de Sevilla. TEP118: Ingeniería de los Transportes; Universidad de Sevilla. TEP123: Metalurgia e Ingeniería de los Materiales; Universidad de Sevilla. TEP142: Ingeniería de Residuos
    One of the main problems in the use of ultra-high-performance fiber-reinforced concrete (UHPFRC) with steel fibers is low flowability. The addition of 2,3,4,5,6-Pentahydroxycaproic acid sodium salt (SPS) in small amounts (0.05, 0.1 and 0.15 %wt of the cement content) can significantly increase the flowability and setting time. The effects on porosity, matrix chemical composition and fiber-matrix interaction were examined, as well as its influence on strength. Improving the flowability, pores larger than 50 μm show a significant decrease, while those smaller than 0.1 μm show a significant increase. According to the results of thermo-gravimetric analysis, the production of ettringite with finer grains and staggered symbiosis improves the pore structure of the UHPFRC matrix. An improvement of the adhesion of the steel fibers to the matrix was determined by stereomicroscope images, showing evidence of a relationship between SPS dosage and the expanded concrete area surrounding the fiber. The flexural and compressive strength increased by 10 % and 8 %, respectively, when the plasticizer/cement ratio was 0.15 %.
  • Acceso AbiertoArtículo
    Efect of nano silicon nitride on the microstructural characteristics and mechanical properties of ultra‑high‑performance steel fber reinforced concrete
    (Springer Nature, 2025) Ruiz Martínez, Jaime D.; Ríos Jiménez, José David; Pérez-Soriano, Eva María; Cifuentes-Bulté, Héctor; Leiva Fernández, Carlos; Universidad de Sevilla. Departamento de Ingeniería Química y Ambiental; Universidad de Sevilla. Departamento de Mecánica de Medios Continuos y Teoría de Estructuras; Universidad de Sevilla. Departamento de Ingeniería y Ciencia de los Materiales y del Transporte; Ministerio de Ciencia e Innovación (MICIN). España; Universidad de Sevilla. TEP142: Ingeniería de Residuos; Universidad de Sevilla. TEP123: Metalurgia e Ingeniería de los Materiales; Universidad de Sevilla. TEP972: Mecánica de Materiales y Estructuras
    This study investigates the incorporation of an innovative nano-reinforcement, nano silicon nitride (NSIN), to enhance the workability and mechanical performance of ultra-high-performance fber reinforced concrete. The addition of NSIN at dosages of 0.25, 0.5, 0.75, and 1.5 wt% of cement was analyzed to evaluate its impact on the distribution and interaction between steel fbers and the cementitious matrix. Experimental analyses, including thermogravimetric analysis (TGA), transmission electron microscopy (TEM), and scanning electron microscopy (SEM), were conducted to establish a relationship between the microstructural modifcations, fber-matrix interactions, and the resulting mechanical behavior. The fndings revealed that NSIN increased workability and extended setting time, enabling improved steel fber dispersion and interaction
  • Acceso AbiertoArtículo
    Wear and subsurface stress evolution in tractive rolling contact
    (Elsevier, 2025-05-15) Juliá Lerma, Javier Miguel; Rodríguez de Tembleque Solano, Luis; Universidad de Sevilla. Departamento de Mecánica de Medios Continuos y Teoría de Estructuras; Ministerio de Ciencia e Innovación (MICIN). España; European Commission (EC). Fondo Europeo de Desarrollo Regional (FEDER); Universidad de Sevilla. TEP245: Ingeniería de las Estructuras
    Wear phenomenon is inherent to tractive rolling contact problems e.g., in rolling bearings or in rail–wheel interaction. It takes place in the sliding regions of the rolling contact area, and it accumulates as particles from the rolling bodies cross the contact region. Wear modifies the solids’ surface, the contact tractions, the subsurface stresses, and the tangential forces transmitted between the rolling solids, which are fundamental contact variables in sectors such as rolling fatigue or vehicle system dynamics. Thus, ignoring wear in tractive rolling contact analysis could lead to underestimations of bearing fatigue lives or inaccurate lateral guiding forces in multibody vehicle models. This work presents a robust SAM-based formulation on rolling contact to study how wear, contact tractions, resultant rolling contact-forces, and surface and subsurface stresses evolve with the number of revolutions. For the first time, subsurface stress distributions are computed as a function of revolutions under orthotropic friction and wear conditions, highlighting the influence of tribological axes orientation and wear evolution on stress and force reactions. After validating the proposed formulation, several numerical examples are presented to show how considering orthotropic friction and wear laws impacts stress distributions and resultant rolling contact forces. These findings could provide important insights into the role of wear in tractive rolling contact for applications in engineering and industrial design.
  • Acceso AbiertoArtículo
    Effect of thickness-to-radius ratio on the impact response of fabric-reinforced composite shells
    (Elsevier, 2025) Ferreira, Luis Miguel Marques; Coelho, Carlos A.C.P.; Reis, Paulo Nobre Balbis; Universidad de Sevilla. Departamento de Mecánica de Medios Continuos y Teoría de Estructuras; Fundação para a Ciência e a Tecnologia. Portugal; Ministerio de Ciencia, Innovación y Universidades (MICIU). España; European Commission (EC). Fondo Europeo de Desarrollo Regional (FEDER); Universidad de Sevilla. TEP131: Grupo de Elasticidad y Resistencia de Materiales
    This study analyses the effect of thickness-to-radius (t/R) ratio on the dynamic response of fabric-reinforced composite shells subjected to low-velocity impact loads using 3D finite element models validated by experimental results. Focus is given to the t/R ratio's influence on energy dissipation and damage modes. For thick-walled shells (t/R > 0.05) the peak force and contact time increases as the curvature decreses (i.e., with a larger radius), while the maximum displacement decreases. On the other hand, thin-walled shells (t/R < 0.05) exhibit lower peak forces, larger displacements, and longer contact times as the curvature decreases. This transition indicates the existence of a critical point around the radius of 50 mm (t/R = 0.05). The main mechanism for energy dissipation in thick-walled shells is intralaminar damage, and its contribution decreases with increasing radius, whereas for thin-walled shells, friction and delamination determine the absorption of impact energy. In terms of damage propagation patterns, thick-walled shells show localized intra- and interlaminar damage, while thin-walled shells evidence a cross-like intralaminar pattern with more extensive delamination.
  • Acceso AbiertoArtículo
    Review of the matched asymptotic approach of the coupled criterion
    (Académie des Sciences, 2025) Jiménez Alfaro, Sara; García García, Israel; Doitrand, Aurélien; Universidad de Sevilla. Departamento de Mecánica de Medios Continuos y Teoría de Estructuras; European Union (UE). H2020; Ministerio de Ciencia e Innovación (MICIN). España; Universidad de Sevilla. TEP131: Grupo de Elasticidad y Resistencia de Materiales
    Matched Asymptotics is a powerful mathematical technique with broad applicability in various engineering fields. One of its key uses is in Fracture Mechanics, where it provides accurate approximations in the vicinity of the crack tip with low computational complexity. This method can be seamlessly integrated with the Coupled Criterion (CC), which enables the prediction of crack nucleation and propagation in brittle materials. Hence, this paper deeply explains how the MA technique can be applied together with the CC in the context of Fracture Mechanics, providing a detailed literature review of the advances made in the last decade.
  • Acceso AbiertoArtículo
    A dialogue between Finite Fracture Mechanics and Phase Field approaches to fracture for predicting crack nucleation at the microscale
    (Springer, 2025-01-20) Jiménez Alfaro, Sara; Leguillon, Dominique; Maurini, Corrado; Reinoso Cuevas, José Antonio; Universidad de Sevilla. Departamento de Mecánica de Medios Continuos y Teoría de Estructuras; European Union (UE). H2020; Ministerio de Ciencia e Innovación (MICIN). España; Universidad de Sevilla. TEP963: Ingeniería de Estructuras y Materiales
    Unraveling the material behavior at the microscale is one of the challenges of this century, demanding progress in experimental and computational strategies. Among the latter, two approaches are commonly applied for predicting crack nucleation. The Coupled Criterion (CC) and the Phase Field (PF) model, both depending on a material length parameter. In brittle materials at the macroscale, this parameter is significantly smaller than the specimen size. However, when the scale decreases, this material length might approach the structural dimensions. In this context, a comprehensive comparison between the two models is conducted, changing the ratio between the material length parameter and the dimensions of the specimen. Results indicate that when this ratio is sufficiently small predictions from both models coincide, otherwise both the CC and the PF model predict different results. Despite their differences, an agreement with experiments reported in the literature have been observed.