Seminars

The TLS model was designed to allow for a smooth transition to fracture.  It belongs to the family of the non-local damage models and thus introduces a length. The twist in the TLS is that it incorporates geometrical aspects : the shape of the localization zone is located by a level set. So far, most of the effort have been concentrated to quasi-brittle fracture (but the model basic ideas have a broader possible scope of application). After restating the motivations for the new model, we review the results obtained in these past 5 years. Among other topics the following issues will be addressed :

•            Capability of the model to reproduce properly size effects

•            Predictive capabilities for crack onsets at notches.

•            Theoretical issues regarding boundary conditions (with practical consequences!)

•            Capability of the model to take into account concurrent local and non-local development of damage.

•            Comparison with other non-local damage models

•            Relationships with the cohesive zone model

Finally, a set of open issues will be detailed.