Towards a generalization of a discrete strong discontinuity approach

A generalized discrete strong discontinuity approach (GSDA) is presented, in which non-homogeneous jumps are embedded in parent finite elements. The new formulation presents similar kinematics as for interface elements, accurately simulating both rigid body motion and stretching induced by the opening of a discontinuity. This generalized discrete strong discontinuity approach is built within the framework of strong embedded discontinuity formulations; as a consequence, it is mesh independent and avoids the progressive remeshing needed with interface elements. The GSDA can be viewed as a generalization of other embedded formulations for which particular assumptions are adopted regarding both the jump transmission and the variational principle.Structural examples including mode-I, mode-II and mixed-mode fracture are computed and compared with other embedded formulations and experimental results.