A new J-integral estimation scheme for single edge notch specimens in
tension (SENT) is presented. The scheme consists of equations obtained
by analysing finite element results of SENT specimens under plane str
ain conditions, and separate equations have been derived for two forms
of idealized material stress-strain curves - power law and bilinear r
epresentations. Non-dimensional J values are presented as functions of
non-dimensional far field strains which eliminate the dependency of J
on the aspect ratios of specimens. It was found that both the materia
l law and the crack depth to specimen depth ratio had significant infl
uences on the predicted J values and by presenting equations for diffe
rent parts of the J versus strain curves, the scheme is able to take t
hese influences into account.