A new stabilization technique for finite elements in non-linear elasticity

In the present contribution, an innovative stabilization technique for two-dimensional low-order finite elements is presented. The new approach results in an element formulation that is much simpler than the recently proposed enhanced strain element formulation, yet which gives results of at least the same quality. An important feature in the regime of large deformations is the stability of the element, which is addressed in detail. The main advantages of the new formulation are, besides its simplicity, its computational efficiency and robust behaviour. Only three history variables have to be stored, making this stabilization concept particularly interesting for large-scale problems.