Computational modeling of geometric and material nonlinearities with an application to impact damage in brittle materials

A model is presented for the dynamic finite element analysis of large-strain, high strain rate deformation behavior of materials. Both an isochoric plastic model for metals and a multiplane microcracking model for ceramics are introduced, and a temperature-dependent model is included. In addition, algorithms are presented for correcting finite element mesh distortion through mesh rezoning, optimization, and refinement. A surface-defined multibody contact algorithm designed to handle large relative displacements between bodies is included, with additions for friction and cohesive interfaces. A test example is examined, simulating a modified Taylor rod impact test in which an aluminum anvil strikes a ceramic specimen. Velocities are recorded at the free end of the ceramic and compared to experimental results. It is observed that the simulation produces the same overall features as the experimental data.