| Abstract: | A stable crack extension is a precondition for fracture toughness tests using chevron-notched specimens. The paper analyses the stability problem for crack extension in two chevron-notched specimens suggested by ISRM. Stability factors are calculated with various compliances of testing machine under different loading conditions. It is pointed out that the loading manner, compliance of the testing machine, as well as the specimen configurations have great influence on crack growth stability. |
