Finite‐element and boundary‐element analysis of craze micromechanics

Abstract

Abstract The two numerical methods are used to estimate craze surface displacements and stresses for both isolated crazes and crazes at crack tips. The results are compared with the predictions of craze micromechanics models. The investigation includes the computation of the craze surface stress profile required to maintain a given craze opening displacement profile. The boundary element program requires less computer time than the finite element one, and similar results are obtained. The analysis also considers the craze surface displacement profile corresponding to an assumed craze surface stress distribution. The element methods produce results which are approximately the same as those obtained using the model of Verheulpen‐Heymans and Bauwens.