A simulation of dynamic fracture of tension plate with randomly distributed material properties by the discrete element method

Abstract

The application of the Discrete Element Method (DEM) to simulation of the dynamic plate fracture is considered. The discrete model is implemented in the form of the hexagonal lattice grid. The cohesive visco-elastic connection element with brittle fracture is developed. Elastic properties of the element are calibrated numerically by the finite element method. Cracking of the elastic tension plate with randomly distributed tensile strength properties of the material is considered as a case study. The dynamic fracture behaviour is illustrated by time variation of forces and cracking pattern of the element network. The results obtained are compared with the behaviour of a homogeneous plate.