Phase-field modeling of crack propagation in polycrystalline materials

A phase-field model based on a modified form of the regularized formulation Griffith’s fracture theory is presented to investigate intergranular and transgranular crack propagations in polycrystalline brittle materials. Grains grain boundaries are incorporated initiation propagation for growth, which elastic anisotropy varies orientation angle, boundary energy related misorientation angle adjacent grains. Correction parameters utilized total free functional mechanical equilibrium equations consider effect material strength nucleation independent regularization parameter. This allows controlling surface along as function order mediate and/or propagation. To demonstrate capability proposed model, ZrB2 bicrystal systems under tensile loading studied detail. The effects inclination with respect initial direction, (and/or energy) path investigated. Intergranular can be promoted by specific combinations energy, contribute toughness