Finite-Layer Method: Evaluation of Stresses and the Modal Components of Energy Release Rate on the Midplane of Edge-Cracked Composite Specimens

On the basis of the finite-layer method, a technique for calculating the two-dimensional stress-strain state and interlaminar stresses in edge-cracked specimens in tests on determination of the Mode I, II, and III fracture toughnesses of composites is proposed. Taking into account the symmetry and antisymmetry of specimens, the calculation is reduced to a boundary-value problem for a system of partial differential equations describing the deformation of one of the layers. Using the method of straight lines, the two-dimensional problem is reduced to a one-dimensional boundary-value problem, which is solved by the stable Godunov–Grigorenko numerical method. Calculations for specimens subjected to three types of the tests are performed, and the distributions of normal and tangential stresses on the specimen midplane and the distributions of modal components of the fracture toughnesses G_I, G_II, and G_III along the delamination front line are presented. Comparisons with results of the one-dimensional solution and with known results obtained by the virtual crack closure technique are presented.