Large-scale fluid–structure interaction simulation of viscoplastic and fracturing thin-shells subjected to shocks and detonations

The fluid–structure interaction simulation of shock- and detonation-loaded thin-walled structures requires numerical methods that can cope with large deformations as well as local topology changes. We present a robust level-set-based approach that integrates a Lagrangian thin-shell finite element solver with fracture and fragmentation capabilities and an Eulerian Cartesian fluid solver with optional dynamic mesh adaptation. As computational applications, we consider the plastic deformation of a copper plate impacted by a strong piston-induced pressure wave inside a water pipe; and the induction of large plastic deformations and rupture of thin aluminum tubes due to the passage of ethylene–oxygen detonations.