A phase field method for plane-stress fracture problems with tension-compression asymmetry

The phase field model is a very promising method to simulate the damage and fracture behavior of structures and materials. While excellent results are obtained for three-dimensional problems or plane-strain problems, plane-stress problems are usually not handled properly. This paper presents a modification of two existing phase field constitutive models with tension-compression asymmetry, so the plane-stress conditions are satisfied by construction. The modification of the formula is in the expression of the stress-strain relation and the stiffness tensor. The proposed formulation adds nonlinearity in the phase field variable; nevertheless, the staggered iteration for solving the problem is efficiently realized through a quasi-Newton method. Finally, the validity of the proposed modifications is demonstrated through numerical examples.

Automated summary

The phase field model is a promising method for simulating damage and fracture behavior, with particular focus on addressing plane-stress problems. This paper proposes modifications to existing phase field constitutive models to ensure satisfaction of plane-stress conditions. The effectiveness of the modifications is demonstrated through numerical examples.