SIMULATIONS OF BRITTLE SOLIDS USING SMOOTH PARTICLE HYDRODYNAMICS

We describe a version of the smooth particle hydrodynamics (SPH) metho d suitable for modeling solids. The model includes strength and implem ents a von Mises yielding relation for stresses beyond the Hugoniot el astic limit. At lower stresses associated with brittle failure we use a rate-dependent strength based on the nucleation and growth of explic it Weibull flaws. We illustrate the capabilities of our fracture model by examining the propagation of cracks in a simple tensile rod, and b y comparing simulations with laboratory experiments for high speed imp acts and cratering.