An overview of the virtual crack closure technique is presented. The approach used is discussed, the history summarized, and insight into its applications provided. Equations for twodimensional quadrilateral finite elements with linear and quadratic shape functions are given. Formulas for applying the technique in conjunction with three-dimensional solid elements as well as plate/shell elements...

This paper describes the application of a fracture mechanicsbased procedure for life estimation that allows complex load cycle effects to be included. The procedure is based on technology developed by the aerospace industry, which includes LCF and HCF loading and incorporates local plastic strain effects at the crack tip. The procedure assumes that starter cracks are initiated at inherent defec...

The macroscopic pre-cracked line scratch test (MPLST), in which a debonded edge of a film is loaded in in-plane compression, has been modeled as a generic, coupled fracture–buckle problem using simple beam theory. Near cracktip beam rotation (also called root rotation in literature), which always exists due to the eccentric loading in this type of test, has been incorporated into the governing ...

The Magnoliaceae shows strong phylogenetic niche conservatism, in which temporal petal closure has been extensively reported. However, it is yet elusive whether temporal petal closure is an idle floral character inherited from their ancestors or an adaptive trait to their habitats. Here, we monitored the process of temporal floral closure and re-opening in a thermogenic plant, Magnolia denudata...