Author(s)

J. Horsten & J. van Vroonhoven

Abstract

A hybrid fracture-damage crack propagation model J. Horsten, J. van Vroonhoven Philips Research Laboratories, Prof. Holstlaan 4) Eindhoven, The Netherlands ABSTRACT A 2D finite element crack propagation model has been developed in which discrete fracture mechanics and continuum damage mechanics are com- bined. At the crack tip, classical fracture mechanics is applied. The crack itself is represented in a smeared, continuous way. The method combines advantages of continuum damage methods (efficiency) and discrete frac- ture methods (accuracy). Especially, the pathological mesh sensitivity of many continuous damage methods is circumvented, while maintaining their efficiency. Mesh partition and element subassembly further increase the efficiency. INTRODUCTION Traditionally, localized damage is either represented as a discrete crack (fracture mechanics) or as a continuous, 'smeared' crack (damage me- chanics). Fracture mechanics focuses on stress concentrations at crack tips a

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