Simulations of brittle solids using smooth particle hydrodynamics Original Research Article

We describe a version of the smooth particle hydrodynamics (SPH) method suitable for modeling solids. The model includes strength and implements a von Mises yielding relation for stresses beyond the Hugoniot elastic limit. At lower stresses associated with brittle failure we use a rate-dependent strength based on the nucleation and growth of explicit Weibull flaws. We illustrate the capabilities of our fracture model by examining the propagation of cracks in a simple tensile rod, and by comparing simulations with laboratory experiments for high speed impacts and cratering.