Coupling of 2D discretized Peridynamics with a meshless method based on classical elasticity using switching of nodal behaviour

Purpose The paper aims to use a switching technique which allows to couple a nonlocal bond-based Peridynamic approach to the Meshless Local Exponential Basis Functions (MLEBF) method, based on classical continuum mechanics, to solve planar problems. Design/methodology/approach The coupling has been achieved in a completely meshless scheme. The domain is divided in three zones: one in which only Peridynamics is applied, one in which only the meshless method is applied and a transition zone where a gradual transition between the two approaches takes place. Findings The new coupling technique generates overall grids that are not affected by ghost forces. Moreover, the use of the meshless approach can be limited to a narrow boundary region of the domain, and in this way, it can be used to remove the “surface effect” from the Peridynamic solution applied to all internal points. Originality/value The current study paves the road for future studies on dynamic and static crack propagation problems.