Implementing Dynamic Boundary Conditions with the Material Point Method

Abstract

This master thesis was written as a completion of my Master track in Geo-Engineering at Delft University of Technology. During my time as a Master student, I have not only gained solid theoretical background in civil engineering, but also firmly developed my mentality to evaluate and solve encountered problems as an engineer.I have had the opportunity to explore many interesting and challenging topics, but working with numerical analyses, especially the material point method, was and still is extremely exciting for me. From the first day I started my thesis to the end, I was fascinated by all the ideas and equations that together form the basis of the method. The journey has taught me the value of staying ambitious with my work and persevering through all the mistakes I made and the ideas that did not work out. I have enjoyed it till the very last bit.It is impossible for me to finish the thesis without the presence of my supervisors. I want to thank Professor Michael Hicks for your patience and time to guide me whenever I needed. I would like to thank Professor Phil Vardon for your valuable comments, for always pushing me to my full potential. Of course, I could never neglect to thank Dr. León González for always being on my side. I treasure every online meeting we had, and every moment we discussed the work at the university. Finally I would like to thank Professor Federico Pisanò, for your productive feedback during our meetings. Last but not least, from the depth of my heart, I cannot describe how grateful I am to have been your student. Thank you for everything.To my beloved friends, our dinners and meetings have given me energy and love that I will never forget. We may be separated, but your voices will echo in my heart forever. To my parents, family and my sweetheart, you have always been my cornerstones, unconditionally, through thick and thin.