A boundary element method for calculating the \(K\) field for cracks along a bimaterial interface (Q1346076)

A multi-region boundary element method based on the modified crack closure method (CCM) is developed to obtain the energy release rate \(G\) for cracks in homogeneous materials and along a bimaterial interface. The energy release rate obtained using the CCM are compared with that obtained by using the crack opening displacement method. A combination of these methods allows us to determine the phase angle \(\psi\) and therefore the complex stress intensity factor \(K\) for crack problems. Computations are also carried out for the asymmetric double cantilever beam specimen, which has been used to determine fracture toughness of polymer/polymer and polymer/nonpolymer interfaces.