1. Reference problem#
1.1. Geometry#
We are interested in a cube subjected to a tensile force comprising a horizontal circular crack with radius \(a\mathrm{=}2m\). We will consider a cube with side \(10a\).

Figure 1.1-a : geometry
1.2. Material properties#
We consider a homogeneous isotropic elastic linear material whose characteristics are the following:
Young’s module \(E\mathrm{=}\mathrm{200 000}\mathit{Mpa}\),
Poisson’s ratio \(\nu \mathrm{=}\mathrm{0,3}\).
1.3. Boundary conditions and loads#
The structure is in tension (\(\sigma \mathrm{=}1\mathit{MPa}\)).