Generalizations and specializations of cohesive crack models

This paper presents an overview of the cohesive crack model, one of the basic models used so far to describe the fracture of concrete and other quasibrittle materials. Recent developments and needs for further research are discussed. The displayed evidence and the discussion are based on considering the cohesive crack model as a constitutive assumption rather than an ad hoc model for the behaviour ahead of a preexisting crack. Topics addressed are fracture of unnotched specimens, mixed mode fracture, diffuse cracking, anomalous stress–strain curves, size effect and asymptotic analysis, and strength of structural elements with notches.