Direct coupling of dual-horizon peridynamics with finite elements for irregular discretization without an overlap zone

This study presents the coupling of dual horizon bond-based, ordinary state-based and non-ordinary state-based peridynamic (PD) with traditional finite elements in ANSYS, a commercial software. Non-uniform mesh with a varying horizon causes spurious wave reflections and ghost forces between the PD points due to the assumption of uniform horizon in the derivation of PD equilibrium equations. However, the concept of dual horizon PD permits non-uniform discretization with a varying horizon. The coupling approach employs the weak form of the PD governing equations. The PD and FE regions share the same nodes along the interface without an overlap zone or constraint conditions. MATRIX27 elements native to ANSYS are used for the PD region and the traditional elements for the remaining region. Failure is introduced gradually through the EKILL option in ANSYS. The coefficients of MATRIX27 element are updated once the EKILL option is executed. The accuracy of the approach is demonstrated by considering isotropic elastic plates subjected to various types of boundary conditions under quasi-static and dynamic loading conditions. Also, its fidelity is demonstrated for quasi-static crack propagation by considering double cantilever beam and three-point bending test specimens. The results from the coupled PD/FE approach with non-uniform discretizaton agree well with those of FEM for all boundary and loading conditions.