An implicit computational approach in strain-gradient brittle fracture analysis

Within the context of quasi-brittle fracture mechanics analyzed by finite element approaches, the present research addresses an implicit solution scheme applied to a strain-gradient continuum damage model. The implicit scheme is based onto an iterative procedure which minimizes for each loading step the increment of both the elastic energy and the damage field between two subsequent trial solutions. The performances of the proposed scheme are compared with those of a previously developed explicit scheme. Besides a better accuracy in the static response computation, it is demonstrated that the proposed approach provides more accurate fracture propagation patterns.