The test data crack initiation energy in Mode-I fracture, J1C is determined experimentally for various compositions of Al6061-TiC composites by using compact tension (CT) specimen with variable a∕W ratios. Also, 3D nonlinear (elastic-plastic) finite element analysis was carried for Compact Tension (CT) specimen to evaluate J1C, ahead at the crack-front of several Al6061-TiC composite specimens with various crack lengths. The 3D FEA J1C results were compared with the experimental results. The J1C 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.
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