Fracture parameter identification by Digital Image Correlation and Finite Fracture Mechanics for millimeter-scale samples

In situ wedge splitting tests are conducted on millimeter-size PMMA samples. A method to determine the material tensile strength and critical energy release rate (ERR) from digital image correlation (DIC) and a full finite element implementation of the coupled criterion (CC) is proposed. The best material parameter identification is achieved when the CC implementation based on measured displacements on a contour of a subdomain is performed, providing the crack initiation length remains small compared to the subdomain size.

Automated summary

This study conducted in situ wedge splitting tests on millimeter-size PMMA samples and proposed a method to determine the material tensile strength and critical energy release rate using digital image correlation and a full finite element implementation of the coupled criterion.