Coupled continuous–discrete formulation based on microplane and strong discontinuity models for representing non-orthogonal intersecting cracks

Fracture processes in quasi-brittle materials are governed by the strain localization phenomenon, which involves formation of localized damage zones and cohesive cracks. In this work, we present numerical tools to model from onset propagation multiple intersecting Two main ingredients used for purpose: (i) a microplane describe initial anisotropic phase; (ii) strong discontinuity method introduce cracks as discontinuities damaged continuum using Embedded Finite Element Method (E-FEM). Here, formulate microdamage within thermodynamic framework means simple constitutive laws on each microplane. order cracks, extend standard E-FEM accommodate two discontinuities. The coupling between with is achieved transition based energy equivalence both models. Exploiting description provided model, criteria formulated quantities defined proposed methodologies illustrated several elementary test cases involving complex stress-strain states.