Some aspects of the non-linear finite element method

The paper discusses four separate aspects of the non-linear finite element method: (i) An alternative formulation for the static co-rotational technique in conjunction with a simple faceted shell idealisation. (ii) Solution procedures for non-linear dynamics with emphasis on energy conserving techniques (iii) The use of interface elements and fracture energy related softening ''stress-strain'' curves for modelling mixed mode delamination in ''composites'' (iv) Hybrid static/dynamic solution procedures. While the topics are separate, there are links and these are explored. (C) 1997 Elsevier Science B.V.