Phase Field Approximation of Dynamic Brittle Fracture

The numerical assessment of fracture has gained importance in fields like the safety analysis of technical structures or the hydraulic fracturing process. The modelling technique discussed in this work is the phase field method which introduces an additional scalar field. The smooth phase field distinguishes broken from undamaged material and thus describes cracks in a continuum. The model consists of two coupled partial differential equations - the equation of motion including the constitutive behaviour of the material and a phase field evolution equation. The crack growth follows implicitly from the solution of this system of PDEs. The numerical solution with finite elements can be accelerated with an algorithm that performs computationally extensive tasks on a graphic processing unit (GPU). A numerical example illustrates the capability of the model to reproduce realistic features of dynamic brittle fracture. (© 2014 Wiley-VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim)     

Configurational-force-based structural updates and adaptive remeshing strategies

The application of configurational forces in h -adaptive strategies for fracture mechanics and inelasticity is investigated. Starting from a global Clausius-Planck inequality, dual equilibrium conditions are derived by means of a Coleman-type exploitation method. The remaining reduced dissipation inequality is used for the derivation of evolution equations for the internal variables. In fracture mechanics, crack loading conditions as well as a normality rule for the crack propagation are obtained. In the discrete setting, the crack propagation is governed by a configurational-force-driven update of the geometry model. The material balance equation is used to set up a h -adaptive refinement indicator. A relative global criterion is defined used for the decision on mesh refinement. In addition, a criterion on the element level is evaluated controlling the local refinement procedure. The capability of the proposed procedures is demonstrated by means of numerical examples. (© 2008 WILEY-VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim)     

Microcrack Evolution in Functionally Graded Material under Dynamic Loading

The damage process of metal-ceramic functionally graded material (FGM) is investigated. The microcrack evolution in a layered structure is analyzed using a numerical simulation of stresses and configurational forces. The modelling of an FGM of alumina ceramic and a metallic phase with gradually changing volume fraction of alumina is performed. A structure of two different layers bonded to a substrate is simulated. The stiffness and density of the three materials are varying. The evolution of configurational forces is simulated. The influence of the crack length on the crack driving force is studied for the case of a stress wave loading. The stress loading is applied in the horizontal direction as a dead load. (© 2012 Wiley-VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim)     

Simulation of domain structures in cracked ferroelectric materials

The domain structure around a crack tip plays a significant role in the fracture behavior of ferroelectrics. A continuum phase field model is used to investigate the microstructure at the crack front. The concept of the Eshelby momentum tensor and configurational forces is then generalized to account for the contributions of the polarization term. Implementation of the generalized configurational force in the Finite Element code enables us to numerically obtain the driving force at the crack tip, which corresponds to the crack-tip energy release rate. Calculations show that additional positive electric fields tend to prohibit crack growth, whereas additional negative electric fields tend to promote crack growth. (© 2009 Wiley-VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim)     

On Configurational-Force-Driven Crack Propagation and Adaptive Mesh Refinement in Finite Inelasticity

We introduce a consistent variational framework for inelasticity at finite strains, yielding dual balances in physical and material space as the Euler equations. The formulation is employed for the simultaneous usage of configurational forces as both driving forces for crack propagation as well as h-adaptive mesh refinement. The theoretical basis builds upon a global balance of internal and external power, where the mechanical response is exclusively governed by two scalar functions, the free energy function and a dissipation potential. The resulting variational structure is exploited in the context of fracture mechanics and yields evolution equations for internal variables. In the discrete setting, we present a geometry model fully separated from the finite element mesh structure that represents structural changes of the material configuration due to crack propagation. Advanced meshing algorithms provide an optimal discretization at the crack tip. Local and global criteria are obtained via error estimators based on configurational forces being interpreted as indicators of an energetic misfit due to an insufficient discretization. The numerical handling is decomposed into a staggered algorithm scheme for the dual set of equilibrium equations in material and physical space and efficient mesh generation tools. Exemplary numerical examples are considered to illustrate the method and to underline the effects of inelastic material behaviour in the presented context. (© 2013 Wiley-VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim)     

Phase Field Modeling of Brittle and Ductile Fracture

The phase field modeling of brittle fracture was a topic of intense research in the last few years and is now well-established. We refer to the work [1-3], where a thermodynamically consistent framework was developed. The main advantage is that the phase-field-type diffusive crack approach is a smooth continuum formulation which avoids the modeling of discontinuities and can be implemented in a straightforward manner by multi-field finite element methods. Therefore complex crack patterns including branching can be resolved easily. In this paper, we extend the recently outlined phase field model of brittle crack propagation [1-3] towards the analysis of ductile fracture in elastic-plastic solids. In particular, we propose a formulation that is able to predict the brittle-to-ductile failure mode transition under dynamic loading that was first observed in experiments by Kalthoff and Winkler [4]. To this end, we outline a new thermodynamically consistent framework for phase field models of crack propagation in ductile elastic-plastic solids under dynamic loading, develop an incremental variational principle and consider its robust numerical implementation by a multi-field finite element method. The performance of the proposed phase field formulation of fracture is demonstrated by means of the numerical simulation of the classical Kalthoff-Winkler experiment that shows the dynamic failure mode transition. (© 2013 Wiley-VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim)     

On an Energetic Interpretation of a Phase Field Model for Fracture

In the pioneering work by Griffith, it is assumed that a crack propagates, if this is energetically favorable. However, this original formulation requires a pre-existing initial crack. In order to bypass this deficiency of classical Griffith theory, Francfort and Marigo advocate a global variational criterion, where the total energy is minimized with respect to any admissible displacement field and crack set. Bourdin's regularized approximation of this variational formulation makes use of a continuous scalar field to indicate cracks. Based on this regularization a phase field fracture model is formulated. The crack field is assumed to follow a Ginzburg-Landau type evolution equation, and cracking is addressed as a phase transition problem. The coupled problem of mechanical balance equations and the evolution equation is solved using the finite element method combined with an implicit time integration scheme. The numerical solution naturally yields the crack evolution including crack propagation, kinking, branching and initiation without any additional criteria. In this work we study the driving mechanisms behind the crack evolution in the phase field fracture model and compare to the purely energetic considerations of the underlying variational formulation. (© 2011 Wiley-VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim)     

Phase field modeling of complex crack patterns in multi-physics problems

Recently developed continuum phase field models for brittle fracture show excellent modeling capability in situations with complex crack topologies including branching in the small and large strain applications. This work presents a generalization towards fully coupled multi-physics problems at large strains. A modular concept is outlined for the linking of the diffusive crack modeling with complex multi field material response, where the focus is put on the model problem of finite thermo-elasticity. This concerns a generalization of crack driving forces from the energetic definitions towards stress-based criteria, the constitutive modeling of degradation of non-mechanical fluxes on generated crack faces. Particular assumptions are made on the generation of convective heat exchanges approximating surface load integrals of the sharp crack approach by distinct volume integrals. The coupling effect is also shown in generation of cracks due to thermally induced stress states. We finally demonstrate the performance of the phase field formulation of fracture at large strains by means of representative numerical examples. (© 2014 Wiley-VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim)     

Variational Phase Field Modeling of Fracture Caused by Fluid Transport in Poroelastic Solids

The numerical modeling of failure mechanisms due to fracture based on sharp crack discontinuities is extremely demanding and suffers in situations with complex crack topologies. This drawback can be overcome by recently developed diffusive crack modeling concepts, which are based on the introduction of a crack phase field. Such an approach is conceptually in line with gradient-extended continuum damage models which include internal length scales. In this paper, we extend our recently outlined mechanical framework [1–3] towards the phase field modeling of fracture in the coupled problem of fluid transport in deforming porous media. Here, extremely complex crack patterns may occur due to drying or hydraulic induced fracture, the so called fracking. We develop new variational potentials for Biot-type fluid transport in porous media at finite deformations coupled with phase field fracture. It is shown, that this complex coupled multi-field problem is related to an intrinsic mixed variational principle for the evolution problem. This principle determines the rates of deformation, fracture phase field and fluid content along with the fluid potential. We develop a robust computational implementation of the coupled problem based on the potentials mentioned above and demonstrate its performance by the numerical simulation of complex fracture patterns. (© 2014 Wiley-VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim)     

On a numerical scheme for curved crack propagation based on configurational forces and maximum dissipation

A numerical scheme is presented to predict crack trajectories in two dimensional components. First a relation between the curvature in mixed–mode crack propagation and the corresponding configurational forces is derived, based on the principle of maximum dissipation. With the help of this, a numerical scheme is presented which is based on a predictor–corrector method using the configurational forces acting on the crack together with their derivatives along real and test paths. With the help of this scheme it is possible to take bigger than usual propagation steps, represented by splines. Essential for this approach is the correct numerical determination of the configurational forces acting on the crack tip. The methods used by other authors are shortly reviewed and an approach valid for arbitrary non–homogenous and non–linear materials with mixed–mode cracks is presented. Numerical examples show, that the method is a able to predict the crack paths in components with holes, stiffeners etc. with good accuracy. (© 2008 WILEY-VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim)     

Phase-Field Modeling of Hydraulic Fracture

Hydraulically driven fracture has gained more and more research activity in the last few years, especially due to the growing interest of the petroleum industry. Key challenge for a powerful simulation of this scenario is an effective modeling and numerical implementation of the behavior of the solid skeleton and the fluid phase, the mechanical coupling between the two phases as well as the incorporation of the fracture process. Existing models for hydraulic fracturing can be found for example in [1], where the crack path is predetermined, or in [2] who use a phase field fracture model in an elastic framework, however without incorporating the fluid flow. In this work we propose a new compact model structure for the Biot-type fluid transport in porous media at finite strains based on only two constitutive functions, that is the free energy function ψ and a dissipation potential ϕ that includes the incorporation of an additional Poiseuille-type fluid flow in cracks. This formulation is coupled to a phase field approach for fracture and is fully variational in nature, as shown in [3]. In contrast to formulations with a sharp-crack discontinuity, the proposed regularized approach has the main advantage of a straight-forward modeling of complex crack patterns including branching. (© 2015 Wiley-VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim)     

Computation of material forces for the thermo-mechanical response of dynamically loaded elastomers

Elastomers are widely used in today's life. The material is characterized by large deformability upon failure, elastic and time dependent as well as non-time dependent effects which can be also a function of temperature. In addition, cyclically loaded components show heat build-up which is due to dissipation. As a result, the temperature evolution of an elastomeric component can strongly influence the material properties and durability characteristics. Representing best the real thermo-mechanical behaviour of an elastomeric component in its design process is one motivation for the use of sophisticated, coupled material approaches within numerical simulations. In order to assess the durability characteristics, for example regarding crack propagation, material forces (configurational forces) are one possible approach to be applied. In the present contribution, the implementation of material forces for a thermo-mechanically coupled material model including a continuum mechanical damage (CMD) approach is demonstrated in the context of the Finite Element Method (FEM). Special emphasis is given to material forces resulting from internal variables (viscosity and damage variables), temperature field evolution and dynamic loading. Using the example of an elastomeric component, for which the material model parameters have been previously identified by a uniaxial extension test, material forces are evaluated quantitatively. The influence of each contribution (internal variables, temperature field and dynamics) is illustrated and compared to the overall material force response. (© 2012 Wiley-VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim)     

Exploitation of Configurational Forces in Extended Nonlocal Continua with Microstructure

We investigate aspects of the application of configurational forces in extended nonlocal continua with microstructure. Focussing on multifield approaches to gradient–type inelastic solids, the coupled problem is governed by the macroscopic deformation field, while nonlocal inelastic effects on the microstructure are described by a family of order parameter fields. The dual macro– and micro–field equations are derived within an incremental variational framework. Using an incremental principle, due to the variation with respect to the material position, an additional balance in the material space appears with the dual macro–micro–balances in the physical space. In view of the numerical implementation of this coupled problem by a finite element method, the incremental variational framework is recast into a discrete format in terms of discrete macro– and micro–physical nodal forces and configurational nodal forces. Applying a staggered solution scheme, the configurational branch is used as a postprocessing procedure with all the ingredients known from the solution of the coupled macro–micro–problem. The procedure is implemented for a nonlocal, viscous damage model. The consequences with regard to the configurational nodal forces are assessed by means of a numerical example. (© 2008 WILEY-VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim)     

A Phase Field Model for Ductile to Brittle Failure Mode Transition

The computational modeling of failure mechanisms in solids due to fracture based on sharp crack discontinuities suffers in dynamic problems with complex crack topologies. This can be overcome by a diffusive crack modeling based on the introduction of a crack phase field. We outline a conceptual framework for phase field models of crack propagation in brittle elastic and ductile elastic-plastic solids under dynamic loading and investigate the ductile to brittle failure mode transition observed in the experiment performed by Kalthoff and Winkeler [3]. We develop incremental variational principles and consider their numerical implementations by multi-field finite element methods. To this end, we define energy storage and dissipation functions for the plastic flow including the fracture phase field. The introduction of local history fields that drive the evolution of the crack phase field inspires the construction of robust operator split schemes. (© 2012 Wiley-VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim)     

Configurational-Force-Based Adaptive FE Solver for a Phase Field Model of Fracture

The computational modeling of failure mechanisms in solids due to fracture based on sharp crack discontinuities suffers in situations with complex crack topologies. This can be overcome by diffusive crack modeling, based on the introduction of a crack phase field as outlined in [1, 2]. Following these formulations, we outline a thermodynamically consistent framework for phase field models of crack propagation in elastic solids, develop incremental variational principles and, as an extension to [1, 2], consider their numerical implementations by an efficient h-adaptive finite element method. A key problem of the phase field formulation is the mesh density, which is required for the resolution of the diffusive crack patterns. To this end, we embed the computational framework into an adaptive mesh refinement strategy that resolves the fracture process zones. We construct a configurational-force-based framework for h-adaptive finite element discretizations of the gradient-type diffusive fracture model. We develop a staggered computational scheme for the solution of the coupled balances in physical and material space. The balance in the material space is then used to set up indicators for the quality of the finite element mesh and accounts for a subsequent h-type mesh refinement. The capability of the proposed method is demonstrated by means of a numerical example. (© 2010 Wiley-VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim)     

A phase field model for fracture

The variational formulation of brittle fracture as formulated for example by Francfort and Marigo in [1], where the total energy is minimized with respect to any admissible crack set and displacement field, allows the identification of crack paths, branching of preexisting cracks and even crack initiation without additional criteria. For its numerical treatment a continuous approximation of the model in the sense of Γ-convergence has been presented by Bourdin in [2]. In the regularized Francfort–Marigo model cracks are represented by an additional field variable (secondary variable) s∈[0,1] which is 0 if the material is cracked and 1 if it is undamaged. In this work, we reinterpret the crack variable as a phase field order parameter and address cracking as a phase transition problem. The crack growth is governed by the evolution equation of the order parameter which resembles the Ginzburg–Landau equation. The numerical treatment is done by finite elements combined with an implicit Euler scheme for the time integration. (© 2008 WILEY-VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim)     

An Approach for Micromechanical Modelling of Damage Mechanisms

In the framework of numerical simulation of damaged materials, softening behaviour represents an important topic. Thereby, the decrease of stiffness is mainly caused by the evolution of microvoids. In contrast to the established phenomenological damage approaches, the explicit consideration of effects on the micro scale can lead to an improved approximation quality. In this work, we discuss an approach to describe microstructural evolution. Based on a two phase micro model representing the macroscopical material behaviour, the structural evolution on the micro scale will be modelled based on configurational forces. Besides some theoretical basics on configurational forces at two phase systems and the definition of suitable evolution laws, we present an application of this approach on void growth process in rubberlike material. (© 2006 WILEY-VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim)     

A Phase Field Approach for Dynamic Fracture

In phase field fracture models cracks are indicated by the value of a scalar field variable which interpolates smoothly between broken and undamaged material. The evolution equation for this crack field is coupled to the mechanical field equations in order to model the mutual interaction between the crack evolution and mechanical quantities. In finite element simulations of crack growth at comparatively slow loading velocities, a quasi-static phase field model yields reasonable results. However, the simulation of fast loading or the nucleation of new cracks challenges the limits of such a formulation. Here, the quasi-static phase field model predicts brutal crack extension with an artificially high crack speed. In this work, we analyze to which extend a dynamic formulation of the mechanical part of the phase field model can overcome this paradox created by the quasi-static formulation. In finite element simulations, the impact of the dynamic effects is studied, and differences between the crack propagation behavior of the quasi-static model and the dynamic formulation are highlighted. (© 2013 Wiley-VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim)