Analysis of Crack Evolution Characteristics and Damage Assessment of Slabs with Openings Based on Fractal Theory
Year: 2026
Type: article
Abstract: To accurately and rapidly assess the damage level of slabs with openings in subway stations, a graded earth pressure loading device was developed. Model experiments revealed the crack evolution characteristics on the concrete surface of slabs with openings under graded earth pressure. A damage assessment method based on fractal theory was proposed, and empirical equations were established linking the fractal dimension with slab deflection, static stiffness, and the damage index. The results demonstrate that the damage process of opening slab structures can be divided into four stages: initial damage accumulation, damage manifestation, damage intensification, and damage saturation. The fractal dimension effectively characterizes the crack evolution features and damage states of the concrete surface in opening slabs. Under varying earth pressure levels, regions with the same opening area exhibit a linear increase in fractal dimension as earth pressure levels rise. During the graded earth pressure loading process, the fractal dimension of cracks in the slab opening region ranges from 1.45 to 1.88. Exponential relationships were identified between the fractal dimension of opening slabs and their mid-span deflection, static stiffness, and damage indices. This approach provides a novel method for rapidly evaluating the damage level of opening slabs based on fractal dimension analysis.
Source: Buildings
Authors: Teng Ma, Peng Hou, Yan Zhao, Nengwen Zhu, Yuhui Li, Dongbo Zhou
Language: English
Subfield: Civil and Structural Engineering
Field: Engineering
Domain: Physical Sciences
Open Access status: gold
Estimated APC paid: $3,137
Award: G8372736777
OpenAlex ID: W7204163843