Title: A straightforward numerical technique for finite element implementation of non-local gradient-dependent continuum damage mechanics theories

Authors: Rashid K. Abu Al-Rub, Masoud K. Darabi, Eyad A. Masad

Addresses: Zachry Department of Civil Engineering, Texas A&M University, College Station, TX 77843, USA. ' Zachry Department of Civil Engineering, Texas A&M University, College Station, TX 77843, USA. ' Mechanical Engineering Programme, Texas A&M University at Qatar, Doha, Qatar

Abstract: This paper presents a direct algorithm to implement non-local gradient-enhanced damage mechanics theories in the existing finite element codes with minor modifications and without the need to formulate a higher-order element. This method extends the algorithm of Abu Al-Rub and Voyiadjis (2005) to gradient-dependent damage theories and to three-dimensional (3D) problems. The presented algorithm is implemented in the well-known finite element code Abaqus via the user material subroutine UMAT. The potential of the proposed numerical algorithm for non-local gradient-enhanced damage theories in eliminating mesh-dependent simulations is validated by conducting various numerical tests of the localised damage.

Keywords: non-local damage mechanics; damage theory; gradient length scale; finite element method; FEM.

DOI: 10.1504/IJTAMM.2010.038281

International Journal of Theoretical and Applied Multiscale Mechanics, 2010 Vol.1 No.4, pp.352 - 385

Published online: 26 Jan 2011 *

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