Adaptive finite elements and high-performance parallel solvers for Digital Volume Correlation based on phase-field models applied to cementitious materials

X-ray tomography is an experimental technique used to image the microstructure of materials. It can also be utilised to better understand the mechanical behaviour, calibrate material parameters and/or constitutive laws using Digital Volume Correlation. The goal of this thesis is to exploit 3D imaging techniques to understand and simulate crack propagation in cementitious materials. In situ experiments will be performed on such materials to monitor and quantify crack initiation and propagation. Digital Volume Correlation analyses will be based on phase-field simulations. Advanced numerical methods such as adaptive approaches combined with high-performance parallel computing will be developed to extract accurate information from Digital Volume Correlation measurements by coupling 3D pictures and adaptive virtual twins.

Doctoral Researcher: Samy Dray

Scientific Advisors: Amélie Fau, François Hild, Thomas Wick