Implementation of the particle finite element method for solving fluid-structure interaction problems with thermal-coupling

Abstract

The main objective of this research proposal is the implementation of the Particle Finite Element Method (PFEM) for solving fluid-structure interaction problems with free-surface incompressible flows and thermo-coupling. The method is innovative for taking the individual advantages of both the particle and finite element methods, and using a Lagrangian approach, which is advantageous for eliminating the convective terms of the governing equations. By using a remeshing technique, the PFEM naturally handles problems with great distortions and topological changes, such as waves breaking and splashing. For dealing with the separation and reconnection of domains, and the recovery of the boundaries in general, the method uses the alpha-shape technique, which removes elements with excessive distortions using a geometrical criterion. This technique is also used for detecting fluid-structure interactions, by placing fictitious fluid particles in the solid boundary. The structural problem is solved in this work by a position-based finite element formulation, using the nonlinear framework already developed in the associated PhD research, which features thermo-coupling, large strain thermo-viscoelastic-viscoplastic model, and contact. This framework also uses a Lagrangian approach, allowing a direct transfer of boundary conditions for the Fluid-Structure Interaction problem, and a monolithic coupling. (AU)