Comparison of spherical and cubical statistical volume elements with respect to convergence, anisotropy, and localization behavior

► We carry out a direct comparison of spherical and cubical RVE. ► We observed a better convergence for spherical RVE, due to the better surface to volume ratio. ► The results indicate a spurious anisotropy induced by a cubical RVE shape, which is not the case for spherical RVE. ► This anisotropy is severe if localization of RVE is considered.