Path-Independent Integral and Moving Isoparametric Elements for Dynamic Crack Propagation

The objective of this paper is to present a procedure based on moving (or shifting) isoparametric elements for the analysis of dynamic crack propagation. The fracture parameters, such as the stress intensity factors or energy release rates for dynamically propagating cracks, are evaluated by far-field path-independent integrals that were recently derived by the authors. The combined use of the moving isoparametric elements and the pathindependent integrals gives excellent results as compared to those obtained by other techniques. The utility of other types of path-independent integrals not having the meaning of energy release rates for a dynamically propagating crack is also discussed. It is found that the use of the path-independent integral having the meaning of energy release rate is essential for a correct evaluation of the stress intensity factors.