Definition of strain energy density, strain energy, energy release rate and compliance. Determination of elastic crack tip K field. Definition and use of crack opening displacement COD. Determination of K in infinite and finite bodies. Concept of K dominance, KIC testing, relationship between K and energy release rate. Concept of cleavage fracture. Examination of fracture under mixed mode conditions and crack branching. Definition and use of the J integral in non-linear fracture mechanics. Determination of elastic-plastic crack tip HRR field. Relationship between J and energy release rate. Definition of limit load and its application in fracture mechanics. Use of factors in carrying out fracture toughness tests. J estimation schemes. Concept of J dominance and size requirements for JIC testing. Concept of ductile fracture and the competition between cleavage and ductile fracture. Derivation of Failure Assessment Diagrams and use of British Standard BS7910 in fracture assessments. Definition and use of C* in creep fracture mechanics. Determination of elastic-creep crack tip C* field. Prediction of crack initiation and growth under creep conditions. Mechanisms of creep fracture.

1. Identify the mode of fracture under brittle, ductile and creep conditions from inspection of a fracture surface (Final exam and homework for credit.) 2. Demonstrate the use of the linear elastic fracture mechanics parameter K and G in fracture assessments. (Final exam and homework for credit.) 3. Demonstrate the use of the non-linear fracture mechanics parameters, COD, J and C*. (Final exam and homework for credit.) 4. Demonstrate the relationships between the fracture mechanics parameters, K, J, COD and G. 5. Demonstrate how to derive from first principles the stress distributions ahead of a crack under brittle, ductile and creep conditions. (Final exam and homework for credit.) 6. Appreciate how to make fracture toughness and resistance curve measurements on materials. (Final exam and homework for credit.) 7. Understand the theoretical basis behind fracture mechanics design codes and know how to apply these codes to engineering components. (Final exam and homework for credit.)

8. Appreciate that a comprehensive engineering design requires the application of fracture mechanics principles. (Final exam and homework for credit.)

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