Evaluation of Mixed-mode Integral Invariant for Polymer Material Trough The Couple Experimental-Numerical Process

Abstract

Usually the element of real structures is subject of the mixed mode loadings. This fact can be explained by the elements geometry and the loading orientations. In this case the propagation of the eventual cracks is characterised by the mixed mode kinematics. In order to characterize the fracture process in mixed mode it’s necessary to separate the fracture process in order to evaluate the influence of each mode. Our study is limited to plane configurations. The mixed mode is considered as an association of opening and shear modes. The mixed mode fracture is evaluated trough the experimental tests using the SEN specimen for different mixed mode ratios. The fracture process separation is operated by the invariant integral Mθ. Moreover, our study regroups an experimental and a numerical approaches.