3D modelling of plasticity induced fatigue crack closure-effect of material constitutive relations

3D finite element method is utilized to analyze the plasticity-induced crack closure (PICC) phenomenon in a cracked plate under constant-amplitude cyclic loading. To accurately capture the PICC process the choice of material model employed is of significant importance. This paper considers a relatively new model, the Ellyin–Xia elastic–plastic constitutive relations, and the more widely used kinematic hardening model. The study shows considerable difference in the results obtained while employing the two material models. Experimental results support the predictions by the Ellyin–Xia material model.