Introduction to Fracture Mechanics

Abstract : This text is based on a series of lectures conducted on fracture mechanics. As an introductory course, the test is focused on the essential concepts and analytical methods of fracture mechanics, aiming at painting a broad picture of the theoretical background to fracture mechanics. While a brief review of some important issues in the theory of elasticity is provided in the first chapter, the main focus of the test is centered on stress analysis and energetic approaches to cracked components, local plastic deformation at crack tips, fracture criteria and fatigue life prediction.