Weight function based Dugdale model for mixed-mode crack problems with arbitrary crack surface tractions

Weight function theory states crack surface displacements can be found for any arbitrary distribution of mode I, or mixed-mode crack face tractions via that geometry’s weight functions. This statement is validated via finite element analysis of the infinite center-cracked plate for various mixed mode loadings. An elastic-perfectly plastic material is considered using a Dugdale approach and compared to elastic–plastic finite element simulations. The weight function method in all cases agrees well with the finite element simulations for small scale yielding at the crack tip. As the maximum traction value approaches one-half the yield strength discrepancies become larger due to violation of small scale yielding.