A time-domain finite element method for dynamic viscoelastic solution of layered-half-space responses under loading pulses. (November 2015)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Xu, Qinwu; Prozzi, Jorge A.
• Is Part Of: Computers & structures. Volume 160(2015)
• Page Start: 20
• Page End: 39
• Publication Date: 2015-11
• Subjects: Layered half-space -- Dynamic response -- Viscoelasticity -- FE method -- Computer program; Structural engineering -- Data processing -- Periodicals; Electronic data processing -- Structures, Theory of -- Periodicals; 624.171
• DOI: 10.1016/j.compstruc.2015.07.005
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 0045-7949

Abstract

Highlights: We developed a dynamic viscoelastic response model and finite element solution for layered half-space. The combined Houbolt, central and forward finite difference method is proposed for time discretization. It is able to model the temperature and space-dependent material properties. We validated the approach for a multilayer pavement structure on soil. The dynamic viscoelastic model considering damping could more accurately emulate structural responses. Abstract: This research develops a dynamic viscoelastic model, a Galerkin based time-domain finite element method, and computer program for simulating layered half-space responses under loading pulses. A combined Houbolt, central finite-difference (FD) and forward FD method is proposed for time discretization of acceleration and velocity to reduce time-step lengths. Compared to existing methods, the developed approach has advantages that it: (1) captures the coupled effects of material viscoelasticity, dynamics and system damping, which fosters understanding structural responses and material deformations; (2) is able to model temperature and space-dependent material properties. The model is implemented and validated for a multilayer pavement-soil structure.