The Singular Perturbation in the Analysis of Mode I Fracture Based upon a New Multiscale Theory

A theory of fracture is presented that is based upon an extension of continuum mechanics to the nanoscale fracture through the incorporation of long-range intermolecular forces which correct bulk material descriptions near interfaces. To be consistent with the literature, constant surface energies are assigned to interfaces. In the analysis of mode I fracture for quasi-brittle material, it is observed that the incorporation of these long-range intermolecular forces predicts sharp fracture tip rather than blunt and avoids stress singularity. The details of the singular perturbation employed in this analysis are also presented