Mixed-mode fracture in a soft elastomer

We present an experimental study on mixed-mode crack propagation in thin sheet specimens of a soft silicone elastomer. To introduce loading, we adopted the widely applied pure shear fracture testing geometry, but oriented initial at inclined angle relative to direction perpendicular external tensile loading. Because angle, locally tip was subjected both and loading even though global tensile, thus resulting mixed Mode-I Mode-II condition for crack. Altering led different degrees mode-mixity hence trajectories. Using particle tracking method, were able measure nonlinear deformation fields throughout entire course propagation. Based measured fields, used J-integral calculate energy release rate during found that results insensitive tangent trajectory, suggesting toughness approximately mode independent. Moreover, when plotted reference configuration, observed be maximum principal stretch. The pave way establishing quasi-static criteria elastomer, which has not yet been well understood literature.