Taylor-based nonlocal theory of plasticity: Numerical studies of the micro-indentation experiments and crack tip fields (Q5948602)

The authors propose an effective and robust finite element method for Taylor-based nonlocal theory (TNT) of plasticity, and apply it to analyze micro-indentation experiments. It is established that TNT plasticity agrees well with micro-indentation hardness data over a wide range of indentation depth, from one-tenth of a micron to several microns. This method is also used to investigate the crack tip field in TNT plasticity. It is established that the stress level in TNT plasticity is significantly larger than that in classical plasticity. This provides an alternative mechanism for cleavage fracture in ductile materials observed in experiments [\textit{G. Elssner, D. Korn} and \textit{M. Ruehle}, Scripta Metall. Mater. 31, 1037-1042 (1994)].