Numerical evaluation of elastodynamic energy fracture parameters in 2-D heterogeneous media

Abstract

The elastodynamic energy fracture parameters for a stationary crack in 2-D heterogeneous media are evaluated with a presented generalized Domain Integral Method (DIM). The method, incorporated with the finite element solutions, is demonstrated to be patch-independent in a generalized sense. In the context of dynamic response, the near-tip region is always involved in the calculation. The method is used for determination of the associated Energy Release Rate (ERR) for the cases when the crack tip is away from the material interface, with the formulation valid for both small and large elastic deformations. Numerical results for such problems appear to be very insensitive to the crack-tip finite element models. As to the instances when the tip terminates normally at the material interface, the ERR is not feasible for use as a fracture criterion. The generalized DIM is then applied for calculation of the alternative elastodynamic energy parameter J/Rλ0. The exponential order λ, with regard to the strength of stress singularity, is also properly evaluated in the calculation. No particular singular finite element is required throughout the study. © 1998 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.