Description:
<jats:title>Abstract</jats:title><jats:p>We use a Phase Field Model (PFM) for the evolution of load‐bearing structures on base of the equivalent stress criterion. Similar to Evolutionary Structural Optimization, the equivalent stress from all integration points is collected to evaluate a threshold. The approach couples density and stiffness to the phase field variable. The topology evolves from homogeneously filled regions by nucleation of holes. In numerical examples we compare results using standard Finite Elements (FEM) and Isogeometric Analysis (IGA), respectively. Latter allows for higher continuity between elements, which is essential to avoid the well‐known mesh‐pinning effect.</jats:p>