Crack-propagation trajectories under biaxial loading, based on fracture criteria (Q1067868)

A procedure based on either of the fracture criteria, i.e. the two-term \(S_ 2\)-criterion \((S_ 2)\) and the T-criterion (T), is proposed to simulate crack initiation and propagation from an initially inclined crack. According to this model the running crack, during its initial stage, follows a strongly zig-zag trajectory, forming successive kinks. Then, after a certain number of steps, the crack path is stabilized in a straight line, until complete fracture of the plate occurs. The directions of the successive kinks are essentially the same as those given by the two-term \(S_ 2\)-criterion for brittle materials and the T- criterion for ductile materials.