Dynamic crack propagation under mixed-mode loading – Comparison between experiments and X-FEM simulations

D Grégoire,H Maigre,J Réthoré,A Combescure

doi:10.1016/j.ijsolstr.2007.02.044

Abstract

The objective of this paper is to describe a simple dynamic crack propagation experiment which reproduces two phenomena: mixed-mode propagation and crack stop and restart. This experiment is explained and interpreted using X-FEM simulations. We show that a simple fracture theory which consists in using a dynamic crack initiation toughness, a crack orientation along the maximum principal stress and a simple equation for the calculation of the crack speed is sufficient to explain what is observed experimentally.

Highlights

IntroductionThe objective of this paper is to propose a methodology for assessing dynamic crack propagation laws under mixed-mode loading
We show that a simple fracture theory which consists in using a dynamic crack initiation toughness, a crack orientation along the maximum principal stress and a simple equation for the calculation of the crack speed is sufficient to explain what is observed experimentally
The objective of this paper is to propose a methodology for assessing dynamic crack propagation laws under mixed-mode loading

Summary

Introduction

The objective of this paper is to propose a methodology for assessing dynamic crack propagation laws under mixed-mode loading. The determination of relevant constitutive crack propagation laws from dynamic crack propagation experiments is a rather challenging operation. If one wants to evaluate dynamic crack propagation laws under mixed loading, one must perform numerical simulations and assess the quality of the laws by comparing numerical simulations using these laws with experimental results. This process requires that the quality of both the numerical simulations and the experiments be perfectly controlled. The interest of the tests presented in this paper is that they provide a well-controlled experimental basis against which numerical simulations can be tested

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Discussion

Conclusion