NASA/CR-2002-211628 ICASE Report No.

2002-10

The Virtual Crack Closure Technique: History, Approach and Applications

Ronald Krueger ICASE, Hampton, Virginia

April 2002

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Contractor Report

The virtual crack closure technique: History, approach and applications

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6. AUTHORS

C NAS1-97046 WU 505-90-52-01

Ronald Krueger
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ICASE Mail Stop 132C NASA Langley Research Center Hampton, VA 23681-2199

ICASE Report No. 2002-10

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National Aeronautics and Space Administration Langley Research Center Hampton, VA 23681-2199

NASA CR-2002-211628 ICASE Report No. 2002-10

11. SUPPLEMENTARY NOTES

12a. DISTRIBUTION AVAILABILITY STATEMENT

Langley Technical Monitor: Dennis M. Bushnell Final Report To be presented at Composite Materials Handbook, Next General Session. Unclassi ed Unlimited Subject Category 34 Distribution: Nonstandard Availability: NASA-CASI 301 621-0390

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13. ABSTRACT Maximum 200 words

An overview of the virtual crack closure technique is presented. The approach used is discussed, the history summarized, and insight into its applications provided. Equations for two-dimensional quadrilateral elements with linear and quadratic shape functions are given. Formulae for applying the technique in conjuction with threedimensional solid elements as well as plate shell elements are also provided. Necessary modi cations for the use of the method with geometrically nonlinear nite element analysis and corrections required for elements at the crack tip with di erent lengths and widths are discussed. The problems associated with cracks or delaminations propagating between di erent materials are mentioned brie y, as well as a strategy to minimize these problems. Due to an increased interest in using a fracture mechanics based approach to assess the damage tolerance of composite structures in the design phase and during certi cation, the engineering problems selected as examples and given as references focus on the application of the technique to components made of composite materials.

14. SUBJECT TERMS

17. SECURITY CLASSIFICATION OF REPORT NSN 7540-01-280-5500

nite element analysis, fracture mechanics, crack closure integral, composite structures, 64 delamination, interlaminar fracture 16. PRICE CODE A04 Unclassi ed

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Unclassi ed

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