Three-dimensional interaction between a crack front and particles

The three-dimensional interaction of a crack front with particles is investigated under mode-I loading. The J-integral is applied to characterize the crackÐinclusion interactions. Numerical examples are presented, using 20 node, isoparametric Þnite elements, for the compact tension specimen and elastic materials. The J-integral is calculated for various moduli of the particles, distances of the crack from the interface and particle size. The problem of the crack penetrating a cluster of particles is discussed.