Field-Enriched Finite-Element Method for Simulating Crack Propagation and Coalescence in Geomaterials

Abstract

A field-enriched finite-element method for simulating crack propagation and coalescence in geomaterials is proposed in this work. In the novel numerical method, the physical position of the crack is characterized by the field variables, and the propagation evolution of the crack is controlled by the fracture criterion. The field-enriched finite-element method is first verified by a benchmark example. Then, it is used to simulate crack initiation, propagation, and coalescence in the different configuration specimens under various loads. The numerical results show that the field-enriched finite-element method has the capability to efficiently simulate crack propagation and coalescence in geomaterials.