Cohesive fracture analysis using Powell‐Sabin B‐splines

Powell‐Sabin B‐splines, which are based on triangles, are employed to model cohesive crack propagation without a predefined interface. The method removes limitations that adhere to isogeometric analysis regarding discrete crack analysis. Isogeometric analysis requires that the initial mesh be aligned a priori with the final crack path to a certain extent. These restrictions are partly related to the fact that in isogeometric analysis, the crack is introduced in the parameter domain by meshline insertions. Herein, the crack is introduced directly in the physical domain. Because of the use of triangles, remeshing and tracking the real crack path in the physical domain is relatively standard. The method can be implemented in existing finite element programmes in a straightforward manner through the use of Bézier extraction. The accuracy of the approach to model free crack propagation is demonstrated by several numerical examples, including discrete crack modelling in an L‐shaped beam and the Nooru‐Mohamed tension‐shear test.