A Hybrid Multiphysics Approach to address Damage and Failure at High Strain Rates

Addressing high explosive high strain rate penetration events requires simulation techniques that combine coupled fluid-solid methodologies in order to properly capture material damage and failure. For example, in a recent public release experiment Northrop Grumman’s M1147 Advanced Multi-Purpose (AMP) round (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=yEAYNX_UCjw) is shown not only penetrating a concrete testbed but also having resultant explosive gas jetting.
For this work, we intend to showcase how a hybrid multiphysics approach can capture the relevant dynamics of such a high explosive penetration event. The combined finite-discrete element method (FDEM) is a hybrid method (i.e., it utilizes techniques from both the finite element method and the discrete element method). FDEM is designed to handle finite displacements and finite rotations while simultaneously incorporating large-strain-based deformability models. These techniques exhibit a great deal of fidelity in reproducing complex fracture patterns and eventual fragmentation.
Recent developments at LANL now allow for the simulation of fluid and solid domain interactions, which are relevant for various applications, such as high explosive penetration. An additional challenge when trying to solve high explosive penetration problems is the solid domain fracture and fragment under the action of load imparted by the explosive fluid. A hybrid approach, such as LANL’s Hybrid Optimization Software Suite (HOSS) where the material is allowed to transition from continuum to discontinuum (i.e., fracture and fragment) is ideal for these types of applications. This presentation will concentrate on HOSS’ applicability for damage and failure analysis at high strain rates.
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