High-resolution solutions of nonlinear, advection-dominated problems using a generalized finite element method

Abstract: Traditional finite element approaches are well-known to introduce spurious oscillations when applied to advection-dominated problems. We explore alleviation of this issue from the perspective of a generalized finite element formulation, which enables stabilization through an enrichment process. The presented work uses solution-tailored enrichments for the numerical solution of the one-dimensional, unsteady Burgers equation. Mainly, generalizable exponential and hyperbolic tangent enrichments effectively capture local, steep boundary layer/shock features. Results show natural alleviation of oscillations and return smooth numerical solutions over coarse grids. Additionally, significantly improved error levels are observed compared to Lagrangian finite element methods.