Determination of fracture energy and process zone length using variable-notch one-size specimens

A new test method for determining fracture energy G(f) and process zone len gth c(f), defined by the size effect law and its generalized theory, has be en proposed. It allows the use of specimens of the same size and shape but with different notch lengths. This paper proposes test and data analysis pr ocedures Sor using this variable-notch one-size method By filling in a prog rammed spreadsheet, the measured maximum loads of the specimens, G(f) and c (f) are output instantly Tests have been conducted to verify the proposed m ethod, It is shown that either eccentric compression prisms or split-tensio n cylinders can be applied to obtain accurate results. Since the method req uires the maximum loads of several specimens of the same size and shape, it makes specimen preparation and testing very simple.