Decomposition of the mixed-mode J-integral—revisited

In this paper the correct decomposition of three-dimensional stress and displacement fields for decoupling the mixed mode J-integral into mode I, II and III is presented. It is believed that this has not been achieved before as certain components for the correct derivation have been missing. It is shown that by using the correct decomposition method, a different area integral for the mode II and III J-integrals is obtained. Several test examples are presented to demonstrate the accuracy of the method. © 1998 Elsevier Science Ltd.