On the Kachanov-Rabotnov continuum damage model

Abstract

In this paper two partially complementary formulations of the simple phenomenological Kachanov-Rabotnov continuum damage constitutive model are presented. The models are based on a consistent thermodynamic formulation using proper expressions for the Helmholtz free energy or its complementary form of the dissipation potential. Basic features of the models are discussed and the behaviour in tensile test and creep problems is demonstrated.