Generalized formulation for strip yielding model with variable cohesion and its analytical solutions

A generalized plastic zone theory based on the ParisÕ displacement formula is presented to study inelastic fracture properties. This theory is capable of analyzing inelastic fracture characteristics of engineering materials in general. The so-called size e€ect is predicted for softening materials. A brittleness index is also discussed based on this theory. It is illustrated that the brittleness index may be used to characterize the inelastic fracture properties of the structures