A continuum damage mechanics model for pit-to-crack transition in AA2024-T3

A Continuum Damage Mechanics model for corrosion−fatigue damage is presented to study the pit-to-crack initiation life in AA2024-T3. This study is based on the experimental observation of reduced fatigue life in presence of corrosive environment. The model is based on the assumption that stress field has effect on the corrosion rate, and corrosion-induced damage enhances fatigue damage. Model results show significant reduction in fatigue crack initiation life. The model takes into account the effect of stress and frequency on the pit-to-crack transition life. Bayesian updating method is used to account for uncertainties in the parameters of the model.