Robust mixed finite element methods for a quad-curl singular perturbation problem

Abstract

Robust mixed finite element methods are developed for a quad-curl singular perturbation problem. Lower order H(gradcurl)-nonconforming but H(curl)-conforming finite elements are constructed, which are extended to nonconforming finite element Stokes complexes and the associated commutative diagrams. Then H(gradcurl)-nonconforming finite elements are employed to discretize the quad-curl singular perturbation problem, which possess the sharp and uniform error estimates with respect to the perturbation parameter. The Nitsche’s technique is exploited to achieve the optimal convergence rate in the case of the boundary layers. Numerical results are provided to verify the theoretical convergence rates. In addition, the regularity of the quad-curl singular perturbation problem is established.