X-FEM in isogeometric analysis for linear fracture mechanics

The extended finite element method (X-FEM) has proven to be an accurate, robust method for solving problems in fracture mechanics. X-FEM has typically been used with elements using linear basis functions, although some work has been performed using quadratics. In the current work, the X-FEM formulation is incorporated into isogeometric analysis to obtain solutions with higher order convergence rates for problems in linear fracture mechanics. In comparison with X-FEM with conventional finite elements of equal degree, the NURBS-based isogeometric analysis gives equal asymptotic convergence rates and equal accuracy with fewer degrees of freedom (DOF). Results for linear through quartic NURBS basis functions are presented for a multiplicity of one or a multiplicity equal the degree. Copyright (C) 2011 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.