PNNL

Abstract

A new complex-variable version of a cohesive element is presented that provides highly accurate first order derivatives of the nodal displacements with respect to the cohesive fracture parameters. These sensitivities are provided as a byproduct of the analysis using the complex Taylor series expansion method. This information is useful for inversely determining the cohesive fracture parameters from experimental or synthetic data using a finite element-based approach. In particular, the PPR cohesive element [1], was programmed as a user element for the well-known commercial finite element program, Abaqus. The source code for the element is provided as an educational resource. The application is demonstrated through the numerical examples.