Crack geometry, stress intensity and energy release
Research context
research method · conditional · As of 2026-10-10
Mode-I stress intensity depends on load and crack geometry.
Key knowledge
Mode-I stress intensity depends on load and crack geometry. In isotropic linear elasticity, the energy release rate is related to stress intensity using the plane-stress or plane-strain elastic modulus; fracture toughness is not interchangeable with applied stress.
Values and equations
K_I = Y σ sqrt(π a); G = K_I^2/E'; E'=E (plane stress), E'=E/(1-ν^2) (plane strain)
- K_I
- Opening-mode stress intensity Pa sqrt(m)
- Y
- Geometry factor 1
- σ
- Applied tensile stress Pa
- a
- Declared characteristic crack size m
- G
- Energy release rate J m^-2
- E
- Young modulus Pa
- ν
- Poisson ratio 1
Conditions and scope
- Small-scale yielding and a specified geometry are required; rock damage, mixed modes and fluid pressure need extensions.
- Use a dimensionless geometry factor calibrated for the actual crack and boundaries.
Sources · 1
References
Sources retain their recorded scope. A source link alone does not establish verification of every statement.
Evidence and review
Linear elastic fracture mechanics: Mode-I intensity and plane-strain energy release (selected source body inspected).
2026-10-10 · Bounded source check of the recorded statement and conditions. This does not certify a unique physical model, reproduce the cited study or replace independent branch review.
Entry details
Permanent link to this entry ↗- Record identity
- research-earth-crack-energy
- Revision
- research.1
- Structured reference record
- Postgraduate & research reference