A first-order strain gradient damage model for simulating quasi-brittle failure in porous elastic solids

In order to simulate quasi-brittle failure in porous elastic solids, a continuum damage model has been developed within the framework of strain gradient elasticity. An essential ingredient of the continuum damage model is the local strain energy density for pure elastic response as a function of the void volume fraction, the local strains and the strain gradients, respectively. The model adopts Griffith's approach, widely used in linear elastic fracture mechanics, for predicting the onset and the evolution of damage due to evolving micro-cracks. The effect of those micro-cracks on the local material stiffness is taken into account by defining an effective void volume fraction. Thermodynamic considerations are used to specify the evolution of the latter. The principal features of the model are demonstrated by means of a one-dimensional example. Key aspects are discussed using analytical results and numerical simulations. Contrary to other continuum damage models with similar objectives, the model proposed here includes the effect of the internal length parameter on the onset of damage evolution. Furthermore, it is able to account for boundary layer effects.