Partition of unity‐based discontinuous elements for interface phenomena: computational issues

The performance of partition of unity‐based discontinuous elements was studied by means of a numerical study. In particular, it was shown that conventional interface elements and partition of unity‐based discontinuous elements share the same structure of the stiffness matrix governing interface behaviour and, under specific circumstances, the same shortcomings (i.e. oscillations in the traction profile). The effect of various integration schemes on the interface contribution was studied through the analysis of a linear‐elastic notched beam. Further, an eigenvalue analysis of the partition of unity‐based discontinuous element was conducted to gain more insight into its mechanical behaviour.