Generalized Gaussian quadrature rules for discontinuities and crack singularities in the extended finite element method

New Gaussian integration schemes are presented for the efficient and accurate evaluation of weak form integrals in the extended finite element method. For discontinuous functions, we construct Gauss-like quadrature rules over arbitrarily-shaped elements in two dimensions without the need for partitioning the finite element. A point elimination algorithm is used in the construction of the quadratures, which ensures that the final quadratures have minimal number of Gauss points. For weakly singular integrands, we apply a polar transformation that eliminates the singularity so that the integration can be performed efficiently and accurately. Numerical examples in elastic fracture using the extended finite element method are presented to illustrate the performance of the new integration techniques. (C) 2010 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.