Finite Element Modelling of Bi-Material Interface for Crack Growth Evaluation:Technical Note

Finite element (FE) method is commonly used to study cracks in structures. In this paper, J-integral method is applied over FE model of a cracked body to determine stress intensity factor (SIF) in the domain of linear elastic fracture mechanics (LEFM). This paper formulates the J-integral methodology for 2D FE model using a coarse mesh with less degrees of freedom. Two cases , a finite plate with edge cracks and a normal crack growth in fiber metal laminated plate, are demonstrated. Numerical implementation and mesh refinement issues to maintain path independent J-integral values are explored.