Fractal finite element method based shape sensitivity analysis of multiple crack system

This paper presents fractal finite element based continuum shape sensitivity analysis for a multiple crack system in a homogeneous, isotropic, and two dimensional linear-elastic body subjected to mixed-mode (modes I and II) loading conditions. The salient feature of this method is that the stress intensity factors and their derivatives for the multiple crack system can be obtained efficiently since it only requires an evaluation of the same set of fractal finite element matrix equations with a different fictitious load. Three numerical examples are presented to calculate the first-order derivative of the stress intensity factors or energy release rates. © 2009 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.