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Fracture Mechanics
Last Updated: 2026-02-05 16:16:17
Abstract
The course provides an introduction to the concepts of fracture mechanics and its application to the Earth's crust. Theoretical concepts, practical applications, and computational methods are covered. The course has a particular focus on solid Earth applications.
Objective
To acquire the theoretical background of fracture mechanics and to be able to apply them to the solution of relevant problems in geosciences.
Content
1. Griffith's criterion: stress concentrators, singularities, crack in uniform tension. 2. Elastodynamics: Hooke’s law, Navier–Cauchy equations. 3. Linear Elastic Fracture Mechanics: singular crack models, planar breakdown zone models. 4. Shear cracks: stationary crack tip fields, stress intensity factor, cohesive zone model, quasistatic planar cracks, shear cracks governed by rate-and-state friction. 5 Additional: dynamic (inertial) effects, fracture and breakdown energy, coupling between elastodynamics and shear heating, computational methods in fracture mechanics
General Information
- Language
- English
- Levels
- MSC
- Frequency
- Semesterly recurring
Examination
- Type
- graded semester performance
Course Components
| Type | Title | Time & Place | Hours |
|---|---|---|---|
| lecture with exercise | Fracture Mechanics | No time listed | 2 h weekly |
Offered In
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Electives (Courses can be chosen from the complete offerings of the ETH Zurich and University of Zurich (according to prior agreement with the subject advisor).)
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