Cohesive fracture evaluation in brittle materials using the BEMCRACKER2D Software

Abstract

Understanding and predicting the behavior of cracks in brittle materials, such as concrete, is essential to prevent structural failures and ensure the longevity and safety of engineering structures. This study utilizes Linear Elastic Fracture Mechanics (LEFM) and the Dual Boundary Element Method (DBEM) to evaluate the effects of cohesive fractures on crack opening displacement and crack growth in brittle materials, with a specific emphasis on concrete. The in-house developed BEMCRACKER2D program, coupled with the BEMLAB2D graphical interface, forms the core of the analysis methodology. The methodology involves a detailed assessment of cohesive fractures in concrete that are simulated using the fictitious crack model, where the fracture zone is represented by cohesive forces, modeled through both linear and bilinear curves acting on the crack surfaces. This approach allows for a nuanced simulation of the fracture process, capturing the complex interactions within the material as the crack propagates. To verify and validate the adopted methodology, two classic examples from the literature on brittle materials were carefully selected. These examples provide benchmark scenarios that are well-documented, allowing for a rigorous comparison of the simulation results with established data. The accuracy and reliability of the BEMCRACKER2D program were demonstrated through these examples, showing that the program can predict crack behavior with a high degree of precision. The findings highlight the potential of BEMCRACKER2D as a valuable tool for the analysis of cohesive fractures in brittle materials. Its ability to accurately model and predict crack growth and displacement not only reinforces its applicability in academic research but also suggests significant practical applications in engineering design and safety assessments.