Towards a geometry independent traction-separation and angle relation due to large scale bridging in DCB configuration

Traction-separation relations due to large scale bridging in composites are very important in modeling their fracture response. Several works demonstrated that such relations are dependent upon the specimen's stiffness and loading conditions. Experimental data and micromechanics of bridging suggested that, in addition to the crack opening displacement (COD), the local curvature can be used as an additional kinematic parameter to incorporate the...