Mixed-mode fracture prediction of notched components using phase-field approach

The application of the phase-field method (PFM) to brittle fracture for studying complex fracture phenomena has recently gained attention from researchers. However, there has been limited emphasis on predicting fracture loads for notched components. In this study, numerous phase-field simulations were conducted to compute the fracture load and crack initiation angle in brittle notched components under in-plane loading conditions. The accuracy of the results, verified against experimental data, demonstrates the PFM's ability to precisely predict both fracture load and fracture initiation angle. Additionally, it has been demonstrated that Miehe's spectral decomposition method provides more reliable results for notched Brazilian Disc specimens subjected to compressive loading than those obtained using Amor's volumetric-deviatoric split method.