Non-linear explicit dynamic analysis of shells using the BST rotation-free triangle

The paper describes the application of the simple rotation-free basic shell triangle (BST) to the non-linear analysis of shell structures using an. explicit dynamic formulation. The derivation of the BST element involving translational degrees of freedom only using a combined finite element-finite volume formulation is briefly presented. Details of the treatment of geometrical and material non linearities for the dynamic solution using an updated Lagrangian description and an hypoelastic constitutive law are given. The efficiency of the BST element for the non linear transient analysis of shells using an explicit dynamic integration scheme is shown in a number of examples of application including problems with frictional contact situations.