The virtual crack closure technique (VCCT) is a well-established method for computing the energy release rate (ERR) when analysing fracture problems via the finite element method. For mixed-mode fracture problems, the VCCT is also commonly used to partition the fracture modes, i.e. to determine the ERR contributions related to fracture modes I, II, and III. A perhaps little known fact, however, is that in some circumstances the standard VCCT predicts physically inconsistent, negative values for the modal contributions to the ERR. Focusing on I/II mixed-mode problems, this paper presents a revised VCCT which furnishes a physically consistent partitioning of fracture modes by associating the mode I and II ERR contributions to the works done in a suitably defined two-step process of closure of the virtually extended crack.
Towards a revised virtual crack closure technique
VALVO, PAOLO SEBASTIANO
2011-01-01
Abstract
The virtual crack closure technique (VCCT) is a well-established method for computing the energy release rate (ERR) when analysing fracture problems via the finite element method. For mixed-mode fracture problems, the VCCT is also commonly used to partition the fracture modes, i.e. to determine the ERR contributions related to fracture modes I, II, and III. A perhaps little known fact, however, is that in some circumstances the standard VCCT predicts physically inconsistent, negative values for the modal contributions to the ERR. Focusing on I/II mixed-mode problems, this paper presents a revised VCCT which furnishes a physically consistent partitioning of fracture modes by associating the mode I and II ERR contributions to the works done in a suitably defined two-step process of closure of the virtually extended crack.I documenti in IRIS sono protetti da copyright e tutti i diritti sono riservati, salvo diversa indicazione.
