Three-dimensional brittle fracture: configurational-force-driven crack propagation

TL;DR

This paper introduces a computational framework for simulating three-dimensional brittle fracture using configurational mechanics, mesh adaptation, and hierarchical refinement to accurately predict complex crack paths.

Contribution

It develops a novel finite element approach incorporating crack initiation, propagation, mesh adaptation, and hierarchical refinement based on configurational mechanics.

Findings

Successfully predicts complex 3D crack paths

Accurately models doubly-curved crack in torsion test

Enhances solution robustness and accuracy

Abstract

This paper presents a computational framework for quasi-static brittle fracture in three dimensional solids. The paper set outs the theoretical basis for determining the initiation and direction of propagating cracks based on the concept of configurational mechanics, consistent with Griffith's theory. Resolution of the propagating crack by the finite element mesh is achieved by restricting cracks to element faces and adapting the mesh to align it with the predicted crack direction. A local mesh improvement procedure is developed to maximise mesh quality in order to improve both accuracy and solution robustness and to remove the influence of the initial mesh on the direction of propagating cracks. An arc-length control technique is derived to enable the dissipative load path to be traced. A hierarchical hp-refinement strategy is implemented in order to improve both the approximation of displacements and crack geometry. The performance of this modelling approach is demonstrated on two numerical examples that qualitatively illustrate its ability to predict complex crack paths. All problems are three-dimensional, including a torsion problem that results in the accurate prediction of a doubly-curved crack.