Stress Intensity Factors for Anisotropic Fracture Test Specimens of Several Geometries

Abstract

Stress intensity factors have been obtained for single-edge-notched, double-edge-notched, and double cantilever beam fracture toughness test specimens using a two-dimensional hybrid stress model finite element analysis. The degree of anisotropy is shown to have a significant effect on the stress intensity factor in some cases, with differing effects for different specimen shapes; however, effects of anisotropy are relatively constant for varying crack lengths of a given shape. An experimental K-calilbration for the double cantilever beam specimen is in good agreement with the analytical prediction, and the effect of geometry on the applied load to cause crack propagation is accurately predicted by the analysis.