Finite element method with the total stress variable for Biot's consolidation model

Abstract: In this work, semi-discrete and fully-discrete error estimates are derived for the Biot's consolidation model described using a three-field finite element formulation. The fields include displacements, total stress and pressure. The model is implemented using a backward Euler discretization in time for the fully-discrete scheme and validated for benchmark examples. Computational experiments presented verifies the convergence orders for the lowest order finite elements with discontinuous and continuous finite element appropriation for the total stress.