A symmetric rail shear test for mode II fracture toughness (G/IIc) of composite materials - Finite element analysis

摘要

Using a high precision triangular finite element model, the elastic stress field in a symmetric rail shear test specimen is determined. The results are graphically presented and discussed. A simple finite element technique for energy release rate analysis of the precracked test specimen is presented. Numerical results showing the effects of material properties and crack length are tabulated as normalized stress-intensity factors. Based on this numerical study, it is fair to say that the symmetric rail shear test with some modifications is a viable method for shear characterization of composite materials in general and for G(IIc) determination in particular. Final acceptance of the test method, however, awaits experimental verification