A new axisymmetrical membrane element for anisotropic, finite strain analysis of arteries

To explore the mechanical non-linear behaviour of anisotropic arterial walls on a computational basis, the formulation of a continuum based elastic potential is a major task and challenge to the analyst. The present communication is concerned with the constitutive modelling and numerical analysis of vascular segments covering finite strains. Special attention is paid to a two term potential that constitutes an essential foundation for accurate simulation within the entire strain domain. Axisymmetrical membrane elements are assembled to match the geometry of blood vessels. Numerical results confirm the theoretical approach by referring to experimental data of different rat arteries.