Monolithic convex limiting for continuous finite element discretizations of hyperbolic conservation laws

Abstract

Using the theoretical framework of algebraic flux correction and invariant domain preserving schemes, we introduce a monolithic approach to convex limiting in continuous finite element schemes for linear advection equations, nonlinear scalar conservation laws, and hyperbolic systems. In contrast to fluxcorrected transport (FCT) algorithms that apply limited antidiffusive corrections to bound-preserving low-order solutions, our new limiting strategy exploits the fact that these solutions can be expressed as convex combinations of bar states belonging to a convex invariant set of physically admissible solutions. Each antidiffusive flux is limited in a way which guarantees that the associated bar state remains in the invariant set and preserves appropriate local bounds. There is no free parameter and no need for limit fluxes associated with the consistent mass matrix of time derivative term separately. Moreover, the steady-state limit of the nonlinear discrete problem is well defined and independent of the pseudo-time step. In the case study for the Euler equations, the components of the bar states are constrained sequentially to satisfy local maximum principles for the density, velocity, and specific total energy in addition to positivity preservation for the density and pressure. The results of numerical experiments for standard test problems illustrate the ability of built-in convex limiters to resolve steep fronts in a sharp and nonoscillatory manner.