Configurational forces and a constitutive theory for crack propagation that allows for kinking and curving

This paper develops a framework for dynamical fracture, concentrating on the derivation of balance equations and constitutive equations that describe the motion of the crack tip in two space-dimensions. The theory is based on a configurational force balance and a mechanical version of the second law of thermodynamics. Kinking and curving of the crack are allowed under the assumption that the crack will propagate in a direction that maximizes the rate at which it dissipates energy. (C) 1998 Elsevier Science Ltd. All rights reserved.