Abstract:
Based on elastic-plastic fracture mechanics theory, combined with mixed-mode I/II rupture test of UPVC (unplasticised polyvinyl chloride) under multiple loading angles, the composite fracture toughness of UPVC is studied. The critical CTOA (crack-tip-opening angle) (
ΨC1) at stable composite crack extension is determined by using the digital correlation image technique, and
ΨC1 is used as the fracture toughness parameter to describe the fracture toughness of UPVC. It is shown that: (1) unlike the common metallic materials, the load-carrying capacity of UPVC under mode II loading conditions is the largest, while under mode I loading conditions it is the smallest; (2) the CTOA tends to be stable when the crack extension is steady, so it can be used as the fracture toughness parameter of UPVC.