Quantum mechanics

Phase (matter)

Engineering

Pure mathematics

Materials science

Field (mathematics)

Geology

Physics

Finite element method

Coalescence (physics)

Mathematics

Strain energy

Composite material

Astrobiology

Structural engineering

Branching (polymer chemistry)

Mechanics

Fracture mechanics

Theoretical and Applied Fracture Mechanics

We present a phase field model (PFM) for simulating complex crack patterns including crack propagation, branching and coalescence in rock. The phase field model is implemented in COMSOL and is based on the strain decomposition for the elastic energy, which drives the evolution of the phase field. Then, numerical simulations of notched semi-circular bend (NSCB) tests and Brazil splitting tests are performed. Subsequently, crack propagation and coalescence in rock plates with multiple echelon flaws and twenty parallel flaws are studied. Finally, complex crack patterns are presented for a plate subjected to increasing internal pressure, the (3D) Pertersson beam and a 3D NSCB test. All results are in good agreement with previous experimental and numerical results.

Phase field modelling of crack propagation, branching and coalescence in rocks