Digital image correlation method in experimental analysis of fracture mechanics parameters

The principles and examples of state-of-the-art experimental methods for measuring the fracture mechanics parameters are presented in this paper. The methodology of experimental analysis of the fracture mechanics parameters includes investigation of fracture behaviour of metallic materials using modified specimens with initial crack under tensile load, with the primary goal of determining the characteristics of fracture processes for the case of thin plates, using basic fracture mechanics postulates. The methodology also includes the application of experimental fracture mechanics procedures as defined by standards, using three-dimensional stereo-metric mechanical behaviour measurement methods. Fracture behaviour of metallic materials, mainly 316L stainless steel and titanium alloy Ti-6Al-4V specimens, is analyzed by using a digital image correlation (DIC) system for measuring strain and displacement in the material. GOM three-dimensional optical system and Aramis software are used to perform experimental analysis of selected specimens. As this system is used to measure strain and crack tip opening displacement (CTOD) parameter on the modified compact tension specimen C(T) and notch specimens, a basic review of measuring procedures and result processing is given, alongside other possible applications for this system. The presented results show strain and displacement fields during crack tip opening, crack growth, and the moment of fracture of specimens, which are not possible using traditional measurement methods. The analysis of results shows that it is possible to measure displacements during crack tip opening with a great precision, and thus obtain the CTOD parameter. The results show that the selected measuring method obtains good results in the analysis of mechanical behaviour and fracture mechanics parameters of metallic materials.