11. Summary of results

The representation of junctions with \(\text{X-FEM}\) makes it possible to model the kinematics of opening the intersection of two interfaces. It is also possible to do the same thing with crack backgrounds on both sides of the junction, but care must be taken to move the bottom away from the intersection (about 2 meshes for topological enrichment) because we do not yet know how to manage the presence of additional Heaviside for Crack-tip elements. A Crack-tip element cannot currently « see » more than one crack at a time).

The approach has been validated in 2D for C_ PLAN and D_ PLAN models and for elements of type QUAD4 and TRIA3. The 3D approach was also validated for elements HEXA8 and TETRA4, with and without contact.