A coupled thermo-hydro-mechanical finite element formulation of one-dimensional beam elements for three-dimensional analysis

Authors: Gawecka, K.A., Potts, D.M., Cui, W., Taborda, D.M.G., Zdravković, L.

Journal: Computers and Geotechnics

Publication Date: 01/12/2018

Volume: 104

Pages: 29-41

eISSN: 1873-7633

ISSN: 0266-352X

DOI: 10.1016/j.compgeo.2018.08.005

Abstract:

Finite element (FE) analysis in geotechnical engineering often involves entities which can be represented as one-dimensional elements in three-dimensions (e.g. structural components, drains, heat exchanger pipes). Although structural components require an FE formulation accounting only for their mechanical behaviour, for the latter two examples, a coupled approach is necessary. This paper presents the first complete coupled thermo-hydro-mechanical FE formulation for one-dimensional beam elements for three-dimensional analysis. The possibility of deactivating each of the systems enables simulation of both coupled and uncoupled behaviour, and hence a range of engineering problems. The performance of these elements is demonstrated through various numerical simulations.

Source: Scopus