A paper on fracture resistance enhancement of layered structures by multiple cracks

We have just published a new paper that presents a theoretical model to test if the fracture resistance of a layered structure can be increased by introducing weak layers changing the cracking mechanism. An analytical model, based on the J integral, predicts a linear dependency between the number of cracks and the steady state fracture resistance. A finite element cohesive zone model, containing two cracking planes for simplicity, is used to check the theoretical model and its predictions. It is shown that for a wide range of cohesive law parameters, the numerical predictions agree well quantitatively with the theoretical model. Thus, it is possible to enhance considerably the fracture resistance of a structure by adding weak layers.

The paper, which is called Fracture resistance enhancement of layered structures by multiple cracks, co-authored by Stergios Goutianos and Bent F. Sørensen, is published in Engineering Fracture Mechanics 151 (2016) 92–108.

You can use the following link, which will provide free access until January 30, 2016

http://authors.elsevier.com/a/1SBTo38l3DD8y

I hope you enjoy reading the paper!

Best regards,

Bent