Work

Time-space multiscale model for viscoelastic construction materials using the initial stress method

Year: 2026

Type: article

Abstract: Viscoelastic materials such as polymer-modified asphalt, rubberized concrete, and structural adhesives are widely used in civil engineering for damping and deformation-recovery properties. However, their time-dependent and heterogeneous features hinder long-term performance prediction and structural integrity assessment, necessitating an efficient, accurate multiscale analysis. This study proposes a multiscale finite element method (MsFEM) for viscoelastic materials, integrating the generalized Maxwell model (GMM) and the initial stress method. It converts time-domain convolution constitutive relations into incremental elastic problems, retains a constant stiffness matrix to boost efficiency, and uses mesoscale heterogeneity-representing basis functions for coarse-fine mesh coupling. Validated via axial rod and cantilever beam examples, the method shows high accuracy against analytical solutions, serving as a robust tool for predicting material long-term performance with applications in structural health monitoring, life cycle assessment, and sustainable design.

Source: iScience

DOI: 10.1016/j.isci.2026.115115

Authors: Xueren Wang, Yanchao Wang, Hongfu Qiang, Jianfang Bai, Zhipeng Zhao, Xiao Hou

Institutions: Northwestern Polytechnical University, PLA Rocket Force University of Engineering, Shijiazhuang Tiedao University, China Aerospace Science and Technology Corporation

Language: English

Topic: Advanced Mathematical Modeling in Engineering

Subfield: Computational Theory and Mathematics

Field: Computer Science

Domain: Physical Sciences

Open Access status: gold

Estimated APC paid: $3,240

Funders: National Natural Science Foundation of China, Natural Science Basic Research Program of Shaanxi Province