Efficient computation of energy release rates for delaminated beam structures

The often encountered problem of mode partitioning for delaminated, isotropic beam structures is addressed. For the sake of efficiency, solutions that do not require complex continuum solutions – in practise mostly obtained by the finite element method – are examined. Three approaches that meet the postulated efficiency are reviewed and compared. While one method fits consistently into the concept of linear-elastic fracture mechanics, the remaining two deduce mode partitioning hypotheses solely from kinematic quantities of beam theory. The results obtained through these hypotheses are then compared to continuum-based solutions. The latter are generated by the finite element method and are validated by analytical solutions as applicable. Furthermore, mode partitioning solutions for beams, loaded in transverse shear, are given with excellent accuracy. Finally, the conditions for which the different methods comply with or substantially deviate from each other are discussed.