Abstract
The finite element method (FEM) is used to predict the applied J-integral values in highly strained tensile panels containing short center cracks. Experimental J-values are obtained by integrating strain and displacement quantities measured along an instrumented contour. FEM plane stress predictions for J-values and crack mouth opening displacements (CMOD) are much larger than experimentally measured values for short cracks (a/W<0.05). Large geometry changes near the crack tip are demonstrated to have a negligible effect on the FEM J and CMOD values. The introduction of a small stiffened zone near the crack tip using an overlay of plane strain elements brings FEM J and CMOD values into close agreement with experimental values. For longer crack lengths, conventional plane stress FEM solutions are adequate to predict J and CMOD values.
Published Version
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