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Abstract A threedimensional finite element analysis (FEA) model using ANSYS program is constructed for specimens made of different homogeneous biomedical materials such as stainless steel, titanium, alumina, high density polyethylene(HDPE) and polymethyl methacrylate(PMMA). Such materials are used for hip and knee replacement and for dental implants. The effects of notch angle, notch tip radius and precrack length on the stress intensity factor are studied. The effect of number of elements along the crack front and crack tip on the magnitude of the stress intensity factor is considered. The linear elastic fracture mechanics (LEFM) approach is used in the analysis to determine the stress intensity factors KI, KII and KIII for opening, shearing, and tearing modes of crack extension respectively. It has been found that, for opening mode, the crack notch angle must be less than or equal to 30(R@ (Band the crack notch radius must be very small to eliminate the effect of precrack. On the other hand, the study indicated that the crack notch angle must be less than or equal to 15(R@ (Band the crack notch radius must be very small to eliminate the effect of precrack. The precrack length must be greater than or equal to 33% of the total crack length and the percrack notch must be blunt in order to obtain the stress intensity factor, KIII, independent of the crack notch angle. Key word: Stress Intensity Factor <U+2013> Finite Element Analysis <U+2013> Fracture Mechanics |