Computation of critical crack sizes for crack growth prediction in thin plates

In this research critical stress intensity factor K/sub IC/ corresponding to Mode I fracture has been experimentally evaluated. Thin metal sheets with single and double edge crack are used as test specimens. The practical results are compared with estimated values K/sub IC/ available in the fracture mechanics literature. The study also includes the experimentation to compute number of design load cycles that would propagate an existing crack to the critical length under cycle loading. (author)