Analysis of stable crack propagation in filled rubber based on a global energy balance

Stable crack propagation in filled rubber is investigated by means of experimental and finite element analyses. Based on an experimental evaluation of multiple specimens under different loading states, dissipation rates are computed by applying a global energy balance. The dissipation rates calculated analogously from results of a numerical simulation of the multiple specimen method are in good accordance with the experimental findings. A further comparison of simulation results evaluated on basis of the material force method with energy release rates computed by means of an energy balance of two crack states under fixed loading conditions shows that the measured fracture sensitivity values are mainly related to the development and increase of a dissipative zone.