Self-similar crack expansion method for analysis of cracks in an infinite medium or semi-infinite medium

Three-dimensional cracks in an infinite medium or semi-infinite medium are analyzed using the self-similar crack expansion (SSCE) method, in which the stress intensity factors at crack tips are determined by calculating the c rack-opening displacements over the crack surface. Calculations show that t his method yields very accurate results for stress intensity factors of cra cks with various geometries. Based on the numerical calculation by the SSCE method, the effects by Poisson's ratio of materials on stress intensity fa ctors are discussed for cracks in an infinite medium and semi-infinite medi um. (C) 1999 Elsevier Science Ltd. All rights reserved.