Nonlinear Phenomena in Complex Systems, 2007, Vol.10, No.2, pp.136-144

NONLINEAR PHENOMENA IN COMPLEX SYSTEMS
An Interdisciplinary Journal

2007, Vol.10, No.2, pp.136-144

Dynamics of Crack Propagation: Regular and Irregular Pattern Formation.
R. Spatschek, E. Brener, and H. Müller-Krumbhaar

We present a continuum theory which predicts the steady state propagation of cracks. The theory overcomes the usual problem of a finite time cusp singularity of the Grinfeld instability by the inclusion of elastodynamic effects which restore selection of the steady state tip radius and velocity. We developed a phase field model for elastically induced phase transitions; in the limit of small or vanishing elastic coefficients in the new phase, fracture can be studied. The simulations confirm analytical predictions for fast crack propagation. We also study the irregular tip splitting, the interaction and coarsening of cracks.
Key words: fracture, phase field modeling, tip splitting, coarsening

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