Three-dimensional modelling of indentation fracture in brittle materials

A new methodology for solution of the three-dimensional contact and crack problems, based on combination of the variational and boundary integral approaches, was developed. The model can be used to predict more accurately stress-strain fields in the brittle elastic-plastic bodies in contact, and so assess indentation induced fracture. Examples combined with results obtained were used to compare this model with others and to demonstrate the high level of agreement with experimental data.