Scaling of Structural Strength

This volume deals with a leading-edge topic of great interest and importance, exemplifying the relationship between experimental research, material modeling, structural analysis and design. It focuses on the effect of structure size on structural strength and failure behavior. Until recently, all the observed size effects were considered statistical, but Bazant has shown that in quasibrittle materials they are mainly energetic, caused by propagation of large fractures or damage bands. Developed initially on the basis of experiments on concrete, Bazants theory recently found wide application to all quasibrittle materials, including rocks, ice, modern fiber composites and tough ceramics. The topic of energetic scaling, considered controversial until recently, is finally getting the attention it deserves, mainly as a result of Bazant's pioneering work.