Numerical solution for mixed mode crack propagation in brittle solids combined with finite element method and failure criteria

Abstract

This paper presents a numerical method for mixed mode crack propagation in brittle solids combined with finite element method and failure criteria. For a crack in the brittle solids under external loading condition, there is a plastic core region existed at the crack tip, the crack propagation will happened when the solid element is plastic yield, and the crack will propagate under biaxial loading conditions forming wing cracks. The stress intensity factors of an element are related to its stress state. Combined with the finite element method, the D-P failure criterion is used to determine the crack propagation path. Computed results show that the crack initiation angle is influenced by the crack inclination, loading pattern, loading ratio and the friction effect of crack surface. The crack is more easily propagated under tensile stress condition than compressive stress condition, and the mean stress, deviatoric stress, maximum shear strain and yielded elements are increased with increased external loading.