Published online by Cambridge University Press: 25 February 2011
Three D.C.B. tests (Double Cantilever Beam) under different loading histories have shown that the applied crack opening rates can have an effect on the KIC fracture toughness values computed on the basis of linear elastic behavior of concrete. This assumption can be well justified for a certain range of crack opening rates, outside of which viscous phenomena must be taken in account. The concepts of ductile and brittle fracture appear then as related to the crack opening rate.