Modelling interacting cracks through a level set using the element-free Galerkin method

A multiple crack weight technique with a level set method is proposed to model multiple cracks using a coarse meshfree nodal discretization. A new level-set structure is presented to handle multiple cracks and their propagation using the maximum tangential principal stress criterion. The level sets are updated with respect to the new crack tip positions. The problem of modelling interacting cracks in isotropic and bi-materials is studied using a new variant of the element-free Galerkin method. The stress intensity factors (SIFs) and energy release rates for interacting cracks in isotropic and homogenous materials, including a crack at a bi-material interface are determined using the standard interaction integral. Case studies involving crack-crack interactions, doubly and triply kinked cracks are analysed to demonstrate the simplicity and the effectiveness of the proposed approach.