Application of discrete element method to modeling of brittle fracture of one-dimensional structures

Abstract

Application of the discrete element method to modeling of brittle fracture and elasto-dynamic post-fracture behavior of the heterogeneous one–dimensional structures is considered. One dimensional continuum is described by a chain of discrete elements (particles) connected by the generalized springs. Fracture of the system is imposed by rupture of the weakest element, while dynamic behavior of continuum is represented by a motion of the individual particles. The solution is obtained by 5th order Gear predictorcorrector scheme. The method is implemented into DEMMAT code. The developed approach illustrates the capability to describe impulsive loading occurring during brittle fracture and dynamic post-fracture behavior.