Fracture and damage mechanics modelling of thin-walled structures - An overview

This paper reviews the most important current approaches for residual strength prediction of thin-walled structures. Crack driving force parameters such the linear elastic stress intensity factor and its plastic zone corrected extension for contained yielding conditions, the crack tip opening displacement δ₅, the crack tip opening angle CTOA, the cohesive zone model parameters, separation energy, critical tensile stress and critical separation and the parameters of the damage models of Gurson-Tvergaard-Needleman type are introduced and discussed with respect to their benefits and limitations for the simulation of plane and stiffened panels. In addition, specific aspects of modern non-integral and integral structures which pose a challenge are addressed. These comprise multi-site damage, crack deviation and branching, welding residual stresses, strength mismatch in material compounds and problems in bonded structures, such as delamination. A number of examples are provided to illustrate the potential of the various approaches.