INTRODUCTIONHistory and OverviewWhy Structures FailHistorical PerspectiveThe Fracture Mechanics Approach to DesignEffect of Material Properties on FractureA Brief Overview of Dimensional AnalysisReferencesFUNDAMENTAL CONCEPTSLinear Elastic Fracture MechanicsAn Atomic View of FractureStress Concentration Effect of FlawsThe Griffith Energy BalanceThe Energy Release RateInstability and the R CurveStress Analysis ofCracksRelationship Between K and GCrack-Tip PlasticityK-Controlled FracturePlane Strain Fracture: Fact Versus FictionMixed-Mode FractureInteraction of Multiple CracksAppendix 2: Mathem.Abstract: A guide to fracture mechanics. It encompasses theory and applications, linear and nonlinear fracture mechanics, solid mechanics, and materials science with a unified and balanced approach. It coversmicro mechanisms of fracture. It is suitable for those involved with fracture mechanics.