A discrete model for cyclic mode I loading

The cyclic behaviour of a double-edge notched specimen loaded in tension is studied. Cracks in the material are modelled by displacement discontinuities that can propagate during computation. Within these discontinuities, a cohesive zone model is used. The model assumes an additive split of the inelastic jump into a recoverable and an unrecoverable part. The influence of model parameters and discretisation is studied and the results have been compared with experimental data.