Boundary integral equation fracture mechanics analysis of plane orthotropic bodies

Abstract

In this paper, a quick and efficient means of determining stress intensity factors, KI and KII, for cracks in generally orthotropic elastic bodies is presented using the numerical boundary integral equation (BIE) method. It is based on the use of quarter-point singular crack-tip elements in the quadratic isoparametric element formulation, similar to those commonly employed in the BIE fracture mechanics studies in isotropic elasticity. Analytical expressions which enable KIand KII to be obtained directly from the BIE computed crack-tip nodal traction, or from the computed nodal displacements, of these elements are derived. Numerical results for a number of test problems are compared with those established in the literature. They are accurate even when only a very modest number of boundary elements are used.