2D VEM for crack-propagation

A computational framework for crack propagation in isotropic brittle materials using an efficient virtual element scheme will be investigated within this project. One of the key novel features is the introduction of a robust cutting technique within elements for brittle crack propagation in 2D problems. Hereby the virtual element method confirms its effectiveness, robustness and flexibility in dealing with complex element shapes and arbitrary number of nodes in an element which can be changed due to the cutting process during the simulation.