Microscopic study of mode I crack tip deformation

By simulating edge dislocation emissions from a mode I crack tip along multiple inclined slip planes, the plastic zone and dislocation-free zone around the crack tip are obtained. It is found that the shape of the mode I plastic zone consists of two leaning forward loops which is better agreement with experimental observations. Except at the crack tip there are also stress peaks in front of the crack tip. A formula of the maximum peak stress as a function of the applied stress intensity factor and the friction stress has been regressed.