A hybrid crack tip element containing a strip-yield crack-tip plasticity model

This paper presents a model for the simulation of cracks in thin-walled structures using Trefftz-elements (T-elements) for crack tip regions. These elements are based on exact solutions to the governing differential equations and inner boundary conditions, resulting in high resolutions of the stress/strain fields. The T-elements are combined with standard elements using an extended variational principle. Beside this formalism the paper presents the derivation of particular solutions for a straight 2d-crack including a Dugdale strip-yield zone. The results are validated against high-resolution standard finite element simulations. Finally a crack propagation algorithm and some future enhancements are discussed.