Automatic LEFM crack propagation method based on local Lepp–Delaunay mesh refinement

A numerical method for 2D LEFM crack propagation simulation is presented. This uses a Lepp–Delaunay based mesh refinement algorithm for triangular meshes which allows both the generation of the initial mesh and the local modification of the current mesh as the crack propagates. For any triangle t, Lepp(t) (Longest Edge Propagation Path of t) is a finite, ordered list of increasing longest edge neighbor triangles, that allows to find a pair of triangles over which mesh refinement operations are easily and locally performed. This is particularly useful for fracture mechanics analysis, where high gradients of element size are needed. The crack propagation is simulated by using a finite element model for each crack propagation step, then the mesh near the crack tip is modified to take into account the crack advance. Stress intensify factors are calculated using the displacement extrapolation technique while the crack propagation angle is calculated using the maximum circumferential stress method. Empirical testing shows that the behavior of the method is in complete agreement with experimental results reported in the literature. Good results are obtained in terms of accuracy and mesh element size across the geometry during the process.