Numerical simulation of fracture propagation using phase-field models with scalar function and fourth-order degradation tensor.

• Grant number: 24/23776-9
• Support Opportunities: Scholarships abroad - Research Internship - Scientific Initiation
• Start date: April 01, 2025
• End date: July 31, 2025
• Field of knowledge: Engineering - Mechanical Engineering - Mechanics of Solids
• Principal Investigator: Marco Lucio Bittencourt
• Grantee: Amanda Chiquito Modesto
• Supervisor: Umberto Perego
• Host Institution: Faculdade de Engenharia Mecânica (FEM). Universidade Estadual de Campinas (UNICAMP). Campinas , SP, Brazil
• Institution abroad: Politecnico di Milano, Italy
• Associated to the scholarship: 24/05645-4 - Customization of the in-house software with the GiD pre- and post-processing program., BP.IC

Abstract

This project explores the application of phase-field models for simulating fracture processes in brittle and quasi-brittle materials, focusing on the comparative effectiveness of two degradation approaches: (i) a scalar degradation function and (ii) a fourth-order degradation tensor. Benchmark tests with known experimental/analytical solutions will be simulated to assess the computational efficiency and the accuracy of the qualitative andquantitative results obtained by both approaches. Key outcomes include comparisons of crack patterns, displacement, strain, and stress fields, as well as load-displacement curves. These comparisons aim to highlight the advantages and limitations of each approach and provide insights into their applicability for different material types and fracture behavior. This research will contribute to a deeper understanding of phase-field models in computational fracture mechanics and enhance the student's expertise in numericalmethods, fracture modeling, and the treatment of nonlinear problems.