Finite element analysis of dynamic crack propagation using remeshing technique

This paper presents a finite element analysis based on the remeshing technique to predict the dynamic crack propagation and crack arrest in a brittle material, namely Araldite-B. The dynamic fracture toughness criterion is used to form the crack tip equation of motion. Plane stress condition is invoked in the present two-dimensional fracture analysis of the RDCB (rectangular double cantilever beam) specimens and the unknown crack tip position, and velocity is computed during the analysis by the dynamic fracture criterion. According to the new crack tip position, a remeshing algorithm has been used to simulate the dynamic crack growth and arrest. The obtained results including kinetic energy and strain energy, crack tip velocity, dynamic stress intensity factor during crack growth and also crack arrest length have been presented. Comparison of the results with those cited in the literature has shown a good agreement.