A strain energy density theory for mixed mode crack propagation in rubber-like materials

In this paper, a numerical modeling of crack propagation for rubber-like materials is presented. This technique aims at simulating the crack growth under mixed-mode loading based on the strain energy density approach. At each crack increment length, the kinking angle is evaluated as a function of the minimum strain energy density (MSED) around the crack tip, using the Ansys Parametric Design Language (APDL). In this work, numerical examples are illustrated to demonstrate the effectiveness, robustness and accuracy of the computational algorithm to predict the crack propagation path. The results obtained show that the plan of crack propagation is perpendicular to the direction of the maximum principal stretch. Moreover, in the framework of linear elastic fracture mechanics (LEFM), the minimum values of the density are reached at the points corresponding to the crack propagation direction.