Evaluation of a finite element based crack-closure method for calculating static and dynamic strain energy release rates

Abstract A finite element based crack-closure integral for determining strain energy release rates for two-dimensional elastostatic and elastodynamic crack problems in finite bodies is evaluated. Both the J- integral and crack-closure integral are used to obtain strain energy release rates from the finite solution. Comparison with existing solutions shows that both methods yield very good results. However, the crack-closure integral can directly yield strain energy release rates and stress intensity factors for separate fracture modes in mixed-mode problems, and is very convenient to use in propagation crack problems.

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