A comparison of three-dimensional continuum and shell elements for finite plasticity

three-dimensional continuum elements in solid mechanics crucial developments were achieved by Simo and Armero [Int. J. Numer. Meth. Engng 33, 14131449 (1992)] and Simo et al. [Cornput. Meth. Appl. Mech. Engng 110, 359-386 (1993)] recently. These elements are locking free and show superior bending behaviour even for large strains. Naturally, solid elements are easier to develop and to implement than shell elements. This fact motivates a comparison of continuum and shell elements for thin shell problems. Thus, in this paper, continuum and shell formulations are compared for finite elasto-plastic deformations. Copyright 0 1996 Elsevier Science Ltd