Energy‐Based Coupled Elastoplastic Damage Models at Finite Strains

Abstract

Energy‐based continuum damage‐elastoplasticity theories at finite strains are proposed within the framework of damage mechanics. The proposed damage models are based on the effective stress concept, damage threshold loading/unloading conditions, and the multiplicative split of finite kinematics. The models are linked to the history of “damage energy release rate” within representative volumes. The elastoplastic damage constitutive theories feature a thermodynamic basis, characterization of damage, coupling of damage and plasticity, as well as an anisotropic microcrack opening/closing mechanism. Both spatial and material descriptions are discussed. A simple and efficient computational integration algorithm is also given. In particular, a three‐step operator split algorithm is developed within the present framework. A numerical experiment of a notched specimen involving damage coupled with plastic flow is presented to illustrate the capability of the proposed method.