An Energetic Approach for Numerical Analysis of an Interface crack in Shearing Mode

A mathematical model of a layered structure and initiation and growth of interface cracks are presented. A numerical approach for solving this problem is described, with the emphasis to the analysis of a shearing-mode crack. The model defines a scalar damage variable in the interface and also plastic tangential slip, which increases the fracture toughness in the shearing crack mode. An energetic formulation governing the adhesive damage until it breaks is proposed. The approach is also tested numerically to demonstrate the behaviour of the model and to assess its suitability in a particular physical situation.