Transferability properties of local approach modeling in the ductile to brittle transition region

Qualitative descriptive potential of local approach models for upper shelf and transition region has been well established. Models such as the Gurson-Tvergaard-Needleman and the Beremin model have been demonstrated to enable characterization of fracture phenomena over the entire transition regime. The foundation for consistent local approach characterization of material failure has been set, but quantitative application is still at developing stages. Current work addresses properties of a modified Beremin model in terms of material parameter consistency and transferability, which are taken as measures of performance with respect to quantitative applicability. Three-point bend specimen fracture toughness data of sizes 3*4*27 mm, 5*5*27 mm, 5*10*55 mm and 10*10*55 mm are simulated in the ductile to brittle transition region using finite element methods and inference of local approach parameters is performed using pointwise collocation and stochastic methods. The suitability of the calibration methods and overall model performance are evaluated and demonstrated.