A unified finite strain gradient-enhanced micropolar continuum approach for modeling quasi-brittle failure of cohesive-frictional materials

In this work, a novel framework for modeling quasi-brittle crack propagation and shear band dominated failure of cohesive-frictional materials like concrete, mortar, rock, tough ceramics, energetic materials, but also granular materials like sands or powders in terms of a unified continuum approach is proposed. It is based on a combination of the gradient-enhanced continuum with gradients of internal variables for representing quasi-brittle cracking, and the micropolar continuum, accounting for the deformation of the microstructure. For developing the gradient-enhanced micropolar framework, the set of balance equations and the kinematic relations are derived, and the constitutive relations are established in a general manner. The framework is formulated in a geometrically exact setting, based on the thermodynamically sound theory of hyperelasto-plasticity, and the numerical implementation by means of the finite element method is discussed. For assessing the approach, realizations of this new approach in terms of constitutive models for particular materials are developed. They are applied to numerical benchmark examples, investigating various loading conditions, and the obtained results are validated by means of a comparison with experiments from the literature.

Automated summary

In this work, a novel framework for modeling quasi-brittle crack propagation and shear band dominated failure of cohesive-frictional materials is proposed. The framework combines the gradient-enhanced continuum and the micropolar continuum, and is formulated based on the thermodynamically sound theory of hyperelasto-plasticity. The approach is assessed through constitutive models for particular materials and validated by numerical benchmark examples and experimental comparisons.