A computation of the three-dimensional J-integral for elastic materials with a view to applications in fracture mechanics

• Published in: Engineering fracture mechanics Vol. 44; no. 5; pp. 763 - 788
• Main Authors: Chiarelli, Mario, Frediani, Aldo
• Format: Journal Article
• Language: English
• Published: Tarrytown, NY Elsevier Ltd 01.03.1993; Oxford Elsevier
• Subjects: Exact sciences and technology; Fracture mechanics (crack, fatigue, damage...); Fundamental areas of phenomenology (including applications); Physics; Solid mechanics; Structural and continuum mechanics; Finite element method; J integral; Three dimensional model; Isoparametric finite element; Reinforced structure; Rupture
• ISSN: 0013-7944; 1873-7315
• DOI: 10.1016/0013-7944(93)90205-7

After a definition of the J-integral which includes three-dimensional effects, concentrated loads inside the integration path and thermal gradients, a numerical method is proposed for the computation of the J-integral on the basis of the results of a finite element analysis using 20-node isoparametric elements. The method allows the assessment of the values of the J-integral along any given crack front with a direct computation in the isoparametric space. Examples of computation are given concerning a bidimensional stiffened panel as well as three-dimensional problems such as a penny-shaped crack, elliptical embedded and surface cracks, and a thick specimen under a thermal gradient.