Numerical simulations to support the normalization data reduction technique

The normalization data reduction (NDR) technique is an analytical methodology for characterizing the upper shelf fracture toughness of steels in the ductile regime, both in terms of critical toughness (J_Ic) and resistance to ductile crack extension (J-R curve). It represents an alternative to the more commonly used multi-specimen or single-specimen (unloading compliance and potential drop) techniques. Finite element analyses of a growing crack are executed to evaluate the performance of the technique. This approach has the advantage to remove large uncertainties entailing experimental results. Results demonstrate the precision of the method.