Mixed-mode fracture modeling with smoothed particle hydrodynamics

In this work, we describe a coupled Drucker–Prager and Grady–Kipp SPH framework in order to simulate mode I, mode II and mixed mode failure under the same formulation. This framework is then applied to study failure in uniaxial compression of gypsum samples containing a single angled flaw.To validate the model, results are compared with the experimental analysis and shows good agreement, where fracture initiation positions and angles are well represented. This trend of agreement continues beyond initiation, through to propagation, and finally post-failure behavior.The methodology and results shown here describe a powerful tool for study of fracture mechanics.