Please note! Course description is confirmed for two academic years, which means that in general, e.g. Learning outcomes, assessment methods and key content stays unchanged. However, via course syllabus, it is possible to specify or change the course execution in each realization of the course, such as how the contact sessions are organized, assessment methods weighted or materials used.

LEARNING OUTCOMES

After the course, the student will be able to:

  • understand the theoretical background of linear and non-linear fracture mechanics.
  • apply the principles of fracture mechanics to solve design problems.
  • determine if crack growth will be stable or unstable.
  • define and discuss the most common fracture mechanisms.

Credits: 5

Schedule: 20.04.2021 - 02.06.2021

Teacher in charge (valid 01.08.2020-31.07.2022): Luc St-Pierre

Teacher in charge (applies in this implementation): Luc St-Pierre

Contact information for the course (applies in this implementation):

CEFR level (applies in this implementation):

Language of instruction and studies (valid 01.08.2020-31.07.2022):

Teaching language: English

Languages of study attainment: English

CONTENT, ASSESSMENT AND WORKLOAD

Content
  • Valid 01.08.2020-31.07.2022:

    The course will start by introducing the fundamental principles of Linear Elastic Fracture Mechanics (LEFM).  This will cover both the energy balance and stress analysis of cracks as well as the necessary conditions for stable crack growth and small-scale yielding.  Then, these principles will be extended to elastic-plastic fracture mechanics by introducing the J-integral.  Finally, the course will provide an introduction to the fracture mechanisms and testing methods applicable for different materials.

Assessment Methods and Criteria
  • Valid 01.08.2020-31.07.2022:

    Assignments and exam.

  • Applies in this implementation:

    Assignments 50%

    Exam 50%

Workload
  • Valid 01.08.2020-31.07.2022:

    Lectures: 24h

    Exercises: 12h

    Independent work: 95h

    Exam: 3h

DETAILS

Study Material
  • Valid 01.08.2020-31.07.2022:

    The lecture notes provided should be sufficient to follow the course.  For additional information consult the textbook of T.L. Anderson, Fracture Mechanics: Fundamentals and Applications, 3rd edition, Taylor & Francis, 2005. 

Substitutes for Courses
  • Valid 01.08.2020-31.07.2022:

    The previous course Fatigue and Fracture of Structures (MEC-E8004) has been replaced by this course and Fatigue of Structures (MEC-E8006). 

Prerequisites
  • Valid 01.08.2020-31.07.2022:

    Basic knowledge of solid mechanics.

SDG: Sustainable Development Goals

    9 Industry, Innovation and Infrastructure