Mixed mode I/III fracture parameters for edge‐notched diametrically compressed disc specimen

The applicability of a recently proposed test specimen named the edge‐notched diametrically compressed (ENDC) disc was assessed for mixed mode I/III fracture toughness studies. The specimen benefits from simple geometry and does not require complicated test configuration. The finite element analyses of this specimen revealed that pure modes I and III, as well as various intermediate mixed mode I/III deformations, are easily achieved by changing the direction of edge crack relative to the applied diametral compressive load. The modes I and III stress intensity and geometry factors were numerically computed in the midsection of the ENDC specimen using several 3D finite element analyses for different crack depths and inclination angles. Pure mode III angle was also obtained for each crack depth ratio. These assessments showed that the ENDC specimen can be a suitable candidate for studying mixed mode I/III fracture toughness.