Simulating discontinuities in a gradient-enhanced continuum

Abstract

A continuum-discrete model for failure in quasi-brittle materials is presented. The continuum is regularised through the introduction of gradient terms into the constitutive model. At the transition to discrete failure, the problem fields are enhanced through the use of a discontinuous interpolation. The continuum model is able to simulate micro-cracking, while a traction-free discontinuity represents the macro crack. The discretisation procedure is described in detail.