Large deformation of Highly Porous Media with the LIR Solver

Many researchers and engineers are interested in predicting the mechanical properties of highly porous media. In addition, these materials may exhibit nonlinear behavior caused by damage, plasticity, or large deformations.

The LIR solver in ElastoDict is evolving from a linear elasticity tool into a powerful engine for deformation simulations. It was introduced in GeoDict 2023 for linear elasticity simulations in the Effective Stiffness command. With the release of GeoDict 2027, the LIR solver is integrated into the ElastoDict-Deformations module, enabling complex simulations including path-dependent and force-dependent loading. A significant new feature is the "Calculate on Deformed Geometry" capability: by re-sampling the geometry and volume fields after each load step, the solver can accurately detect new object contacts and observe effects like stiffening during compression.

The extended LIR solver supports nonlinear materials through Fortran UMATs and internal material models, enabling simulations of materials with damage, plastic, or visco-elasticity behavior. Since large deformation simulations often require more advanced boundary conditions, the solver now also supports Confined, Free, and Mixed boundary conditions. Another important new feature is the support of pore pressure and compressible fluids for effective stiffness and deformation simulations, which are especially important for digital rocks. In addition to these new capabilities, the LIR solver has been optimized for reduced memory usage and improved robustness. An enhanced solution method allows higher relaxation values, leading to even shorter simulation times.

Use the efficient LIR solver in ElastoDict for highly porous structures — now also for large-deformation simulations. Benefit from low runtime and memory requirements while accessing powerful new capabilities for nonlinear mechanics.