Quasi-static crack propagation with a Griffith criterion using a variational discrete element method

A variational discrete element method is applied to simulate quasi-static crack propagation. Cracks are considered to propagate between the mesh cells through the mesh facets. The elastic behaviour is parametrized by the continuous mechanical parameters (Young modulus and Poisson ratio). A discrete energetic cracking criterion coupled to a discrete kinking criterion guide the cracking process. Two-dimensional numerical examples are presented to illustrate the robustness and versatility of the method.

Automated summary

The variational discrete element method is used to simulate quasi-static crack propagation by considering cracks to propagate between mesh cells through mesh facets. The elastic behavior is parameterized by continuous mechanical parameters and guided by a discrete energetic cracking criterion coupled with a discrete kinking criterion. Two-dimensional numerical examples are presented to demonstrate the robustness and versatility of the method.