Modeling and simulation of the Wedge Splitting Test using the Generalized Finite Element Method

• Grant number: 24/04382-0
• Support Opportunities: Scholarships abroad - Research
• Start date: January 15, 2025
• End date: July 14, 2025
• Field of knowledge: Engineering - Mechanical Engineering - Mechanics of Solids
• Principal Investigator: Rodrigo Bresciani Canto
• Grantee: Rodrigo Bresciani Canto
• Host Investigator: Carlos Armando Magalhaes Duarte
• Host Institution: Centro de Ciências Exatas e de Tecnologia (CCET). Universidade Federal de São Carlos (UFSCAR). São Carlos , SP, Brazil
• Institution abroad: University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, United States

Abstract

Castable refractories are commonly employed as linings in vessels for the transportation and/or processing of materials at high temperatures, owing to their satisfactory thermomechanical properties for such applications. In these conditions, where they are subjected to temperature gradients and thermal shocks, the occurrence of cracks is inevitable. Therefore, resisting the propagation of these cracks is a critical factor contributing to the increased durability of these materials. In this context, this proposal aims to develop computational models to simulate fracture experiments using the Wedge Splitting Test (WST) with both the Generalized Finite Element Method (GFEM) and the Finite Element Method (FEM). These computational models will be created through the integration of the commercial software Abaqus (FEM) with the MEFG-ISET code, developed at the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign (UIUC). The experimental data for constructing and validating these computational models, previously collected at UFSCar, will consist of the vertical force obtained from the testing machine load cell and the displacement fields of two opposite faces of the test specimen, measured by Digital Image Correlation (DIC). This research project is justified by advancements in assembling together the aforementioned experimental and computational approaches to better meet the demands of more challenging engineering projects involving parts made of refractories. Moreover, it is expected that this assembling will lead to methodological advancements aimed at addressing the difficulties associated with refractory materials and their application conditions, since such methodology is expected to be applied for higher temperature experiments in the future. This, in turn, will enhance failure predictability and enable potential economic gains and energy optimization in industrial processes.