Rate of strain energy release with crack extension must
be equal to (or greater than) the rate of energy absorption
needed to overcome the resistance to crack growth.
Linear Elastic Fracture Mechanics
Deformation Modes:
Annotations:
Any crack deformation can be presented by an appropriate superposition.
Mode 1 - Opening
Mode 2 - Sliding/Shearing
Mode 3 - Tearing
Stress Intensity Factor, K:
Applications:
Static/Residual strength of a cracked structure.
Rate of crack growth under fatigue loading.
Rate of crack growth in a loaded
structure in a corrosive environment.