Calculation of mixed-mode stress intensity factors for a crack normal to a bimaterial interface using contour integrals

A pair of contour integrals Jkε are proposed in this paper. The integrals are shown to be path-independent in a modified sense and so they can be accurately evaluated without using any particular singular finite elements. Also, the relationship between Jkε and the generalized stress intensity factors (SIFs) is analytically derived and expressed as functions of the bimaterial mechanical constants. Once the Jkε-integrals are accurately computed, the generalized SIFs and, consequently, the asymptotic mixed-mode stress field can then be properly determined. Numerical results in this study show that the contribution from mode II stress component appears to be more dominant when the uncracked material is relatively stiffer, and vice versa.