Shape Derivative for Penalty-Constrained Nonsmooth-Nonconvex Optimization: Cohesive Crack Problem

A class of non-smooth and non-convex optimization problems with penalty constraints linked to variational inequalities is studied with respect to its shape differentiability. The specific problem stemming from quasi-brittle fracture describes an elastic body with a Barenblatt cohesive crack under the inequality condition of non-penetration at the crack faces. Based on the Lagrange approach and using smooth penalization with the Lavrentiev regularization, a formula for the shape derivative is derived. The explicit formula contains both primal and adjoint states and is useful for finding descent directions for a gradient algorithm to identify an optimal crack shape from a boundary measurement. Numerical examples of destructive testing are presented in 2D.