We propose a discontinuous finite element method for small strain elasticity allowing for cohesive zone modeling. The method yields a seamless transition between the discontinuous Galerkin method and classical cohesive zone modeling. Some relevant numerical examples are presented.

This paper deals with the application of Cohesive Zone Model (CZM) concepts to study mode I fracture in adhesive bonded joints. In particular, an intrinsic piece-wise linear cohesive surface relation is used in order to model fracture in a pre-cracked bonded Double Cantilever Beam (DCB) specimen. Finite element implementation of the CZM is accomplished by means of the user element (UEL) feature...

As observed by Needleman and co-workers [1], it is still not clear to what extent the initially elastic cohesive surfaces are more appropriate than the initially rigid cohesive surfaces for a given application. In this work, an analysis where the initially elastic model is approached asymptotically to the initially rigid is proposed. The purpose of this analysis is to gain more insight into the...

We introduce the notion of time continuity for the analysis of cohesive zone interface finite element models. We focus on “initially rigid” models in which an interface is inactive until the traction across it reaches a critical level. We argue that methods in this class are time discontinuous, unless special provision is made for the opposite. Time discontinuity leads to pitfalls in numerical ...

This paper presents a Cohesive Zone Model (CZM) approach for investigating dynamic crack propagation in homogeneous and Functionally Graded Materials (FGMs). The failure criterion is incorporated in the CZM using both a finite cohesive strength and work to fracture in the material description. A novel CZM for FGMs is explored and incorporated into a finite element framework. The material gradat...

This paper presents a Cohesive Zone Model (CZM) approach for investigating dynamic crack propagation in homogeneous and Functionally Graded Materials (FGMs). The failure criterion is incorporated in the CZM using both a finite cohesive strength and work to fracture in the material description. A novel CZM for FGMs is explored and incorporated into a finite element framework. The material gradat...

Gao, Zhenyuan MSAA, Purdue University, May 2015. Comprehensively Simulating the Mixed-Mode Progressive Delamination in Composite Laminates. Major Professor: Wenbin Yu. Delamination, or interlaminar debonding, is a commonly observed failure mechanism in composite laminates. It is of great significance to comprehensively simulate the mixed-mode progressive delamination in composite structures bec...

This paper presents a new micromechanical model for a collection of cohesive zone models embedded between each mesh of a finite element-type discretization. It aims to forth fully extend the previous linear results of [1] to the calibration of damageable cohesive parameters (cohesive peak stress, critical opening displacement, cohesive energy, etc). The main idea of the approach consists in rep...