An auxiliary crack approach for efficient approximative crack tip loading analyses

Abstract An efficient approach based on the path-independent interaction-integral ( I -integral) is suggested for assessing crack tip loading in elastic structures without having to geometrically model a physical crack. Exploiting just solution of uncracked structure, -integral adapted incorporating closed formulation stress and displacement fields an auxiliary crack, which this interpreted as hypothetical Different specimens configurations are investigated, sparing expensive numerical modeling discontinuities, intensity factors assessed according approach. Various results verified classic analyses.