Enriched $C^1$ finite elements for crack problems in simplified strain gradient elasticity

Abstract

We present a new type of triangular $C^1$ finite elements developed for the plane strain crack problems within the simplified strain gradient elasticity (SGE). The finite element space contains a conventional fifth-degree polynomial interpolation that was originally developed for the plate bending problems and subsequently adopted for SGE. The enrichment is performed by adding the near-field analytic SGE solutions for crack problems preserving $C^1$ continuity of interpolation. This allows us an accurate representation of strain and stress fields near the crack tip and also results in the direct calculation of the amplitude factors of SGE asymptotic solution and related value of J-integral (energy release rate). The improved convergence of presented formulation is demonstrated within mode I and mode II problems. Size effects on amplitude factors and J-integral are also evaluated. It is found that amplitude factors of SGE asymptotic solution exhibit a linear dependence on crack size for relatively large cracks.