Error-controlled adaptive extended finite element method for 3D linear elastic crack propagation

We present a simple error estimation and mesh adaptation approach for 3D linear elastic crack propagation simulations using the eXtended Finite Element Method (X-FEM). A global extended recovery technique (Duflot and Bordas, 2008) is used to quantify the interpolation error. Based on this error distribution, four strategies relying on two different mesh optimality criteria are compared. The first aims at homogenizing the error distribution. The second minimizes the total number of elements given a target global error level. We study the behaviour of these criteria in the context of cracks treated by an X-FE approach. In particular, we investigate the convergence rates at the element-level depending its enrichment type. We conclude on the most suitable refinement criterion and propose and verify a strategy for mesh adaptation on 3D damage tolerance assessment problems.