The numerical simulation of interface crack propagation without re-meshing

Abstract

Based on the framework of the extended finite element method (XFEM), the enriched exponent discontinuous function is modified properly by introducing the rigidity ratio of two sides materials of interface crack, and the portion integral scheme is adopted for interface elements containing two materials. To embody the singularity of the crack tip, the triangle function is introduced directly. What’s more, the maximum loop stress fracture criterion is adopted to determine the extension direction in extended material domains, and the true extension distance for each load step is determined by reducing or increasing half the current trial extension distance until the equivalent stress intensity factor reaches the type I fracture toughness of material. Finally, with the improved XFEM, the interface crack propagation in a cantilever deep beam and concrete gravity dam are simulated without re-meshing respectively and their failure modes are also analyzed.