Raviraj, M.S.Sharanaprabhu, C.M.Mohan Kumar, G.C.M.2026-02-052018Strength, Fracture and Complexity, 2018, 11, 1, pp. 63-7215672069https://doi.org/10.3233/SFC-180213https://idr.nitk.ac.in/handle/123456789/25340The test data crack initiation energy in Mode-I fracture, J 1C is determined experimentally for various compositions of Al6061-TiC composites by using compact tension (CT) specimen with variable aW ratios. Also, 3D nonlinear (elastic-plastic) finite element analysis was carried for Compact Tension (CT) specimen to evaluate J 1C, ahead at the crack-front of several Al6061-TiC composite specimens with various crack lengths. The 3D FEA J 1C results were compared with the experimental results. The J 1C values decrease with increasing crack length of the specimen because of decrease in load carrying capacity of the specimens. Al6061-TiC composites exhibit higher fracture toughness values than their counterparts Al-SiC composites. © 2018 IOS Press and the authors. All rights reserved.Aluminum compoundsCrack initiationElastoplasticityFracture toughnessSilicon carbideSilicon compoundsTitanium carbideAl compositesAl-SiC compositesCompact tension specimenComposite specimensCrack initiation energyFracture toughness valuesJ integralMode I fractureCracks