Non-local plasticity effects on notch fracture mechanics (code included)

I hope some of you find this work interesting, the code with the control algorithm (Segurado and Llorca, 2004) to avoid convergence problems in cohesive zone model analyses of crack propagation can be downloaded from empaneda.com/codes (documentation and Abaqus input files are provided).

Non-local plasticity effects on notch fracture mechanics

Emilio Martínez-Pañeda, Susana del Busto, Covadonga Betegón 

Theoretical and Applied Fracture Mechanics (2017)

https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S0167844217302616

We investigate the influence of gradient-enhanced dislocation hardening on the mechanics of notch-induced failure. The role of geometrically necessary dislocations (GNDs) in enhancing cracking is assessed by means of a mechanism-based strain gradient plasticity theory. Both stationary and propagating cracks from notch-like defects are investigated through the finite element method. A cohesive zone formulation incorporating monotonic and cyclic damage contributions is employed to address both loading conditions. Computations are performed for a very wide range of length scale parameters and numerous geometries are addressed, covering the main types of notches. Results reveal a strong influence of the plastic strain gradients in all the scenarios considered. Transitional combinations of notch angle, radius and length scale parameter are identified that establish the regimes of GNDs-relevance, laying the foundations for the rational application of gradient plasticity models in damage assessment of notched components.