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Macrocrack Extension by Connecting Statistically Distributed Microcracks

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Abstract

The present paper explores the extension of a macrocrack by connecting statistically distributed microcracks. Two issues are discussed: (1) how long a semi-infinite crack can extend by connecting collinear microcracks of equal length but distributed ligament sizes; (2) how far the crack tip can shift vertically from the original crack extension line by connecting randomly positioned and oriented microcracks. Statistical analysis is employed to calculate the expected crack extension length and the vertical shift of the crack tip. The implication of the present study for the problem of a macrocrack linking to a parallel fault is addressed.

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Authors and Affiliations

  1. Department of Engineering Mechanics, Tsinghua University, Beijing, 100084, China

    Sulin Zhang & Wei Yang

Authors
  1. Sulin Zhang
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  2. Wei Yang
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Zhang, S., Yang, W. Macrocrack Extension by Connecting Statistically Distributed Microcracks. International Journal of Fracture 90, 341–353 (1998). https://doi.org/10.1023/A:1007440012284

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  • DOI: https://doi.org/10.1023/A:1007440012284

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