Mixed-mode crack propagation in a semi-circular disc under bending made of an environmental-friendly concrete

Abstract

The paper is devoted to investigations on the crack deflection angle under mixed-mode loading conditions. Several semi-circular disc configurations with an inclined crack under three-point bending are suggested and its fracture behavior is analyzed experimentally as well numerically. Various mixed-mode levels are obtained via varying basic parameters, such as crack length and/or crack inclination angle. Williams power expansion is applied for approximation of the crack-tip stress field to generalize the common strain energy density criterion. This procedure of estimation of the crack deflection angle is tested because it can bring more accurate results when materials with specific fracture response is used. the crack deflection angle is tested because it can bring more accurate results when materials with specific fracture response is used.