On the impact of triangle shapes for boundary layer problems using high-order finite element discretization

The impact of triangle shapes, including angle sizes and aspect ratios, on accuracy and stiffness is investigated for simulations of highly anisotropic problems. The results indicate that for high-order discretizations, large angles do not have an adverse impact on solution accuracy. However, a correct aspect ratio is critical for accuracy for both linear and high-order discretizations. Large angles are also found to be not problematic for the conditioning of the linear systems arising from the discretizations. Further, when choosing preconditioning strategies, coupling strengths among elements rather than element angle sizes should be taken into account. With an appropriate preconditioner, solutions on meshes with and without large angles can be achieved within a comparable time. (C) 2011 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.