The Mode I elastic stress distribution in the immediate vicinity of an intrusion-type notch

The representation of the elastic stress distribution in the immediate vicinity of a notch root is a key element in the development of a fracture mechanics methodology for blunt notches. Earlier work has shown that, for Mode III deformation, the stress at a distance x ≪ ρ (notch root radius of curvature) ahead of the root is unique in that it only depends on x, ρ and the peak stress σp irrespective of the notch shape and the loading characteristics. However with Mode I deformation, it has been shown that the local stress does not exhibit this uniqueness characteristic. This conclusion is underpinned by this paper’s quantification of the Mode I elastic stress distribution in the immediate vicinity of an intrusion-type notch.