A rotating smeared crack approach in Sequentially Linear Analysis using the Elastic-brittle fraction model

Sequentially Linear Analysis (SLA), an event-by-event solution strategy in which a sequence of scaled linear analyses with decreasing secant stiffness is performed, representing local damage increments; is a robust alternative to nonlinear finite element analysis of quasi-brittle structures. Since it is based on a fixed smeared crack...

Mimicking a rotating crack model within sequentially linear analysis using an elastic-perfectly brittle sublayer model

Throughout the years, incremental iterative approaches have been shown to be excellent tools in describing the complex behaviour of structures under a wide range of circumstances. However, robustness issues arise for quasi-brittle structures due to the potential lost of convergence during the development of abrupt fracture mechanisms. In order...

Investigating the size effect in SENB specimens with a triaxiality and Lode angle based damage model

This master thesis is built up around two questions. First: Is it possible to calibrate a ductile failure model, where the strain at failure is a function of stress triaxiality and Lode angle, using only a single SENB specimen? The failure model that is referred to describes local failure in a finite element model to simulate ductile fracture....