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To evaluate the integrity of a structure is to prove its ability to perform its mechanical functions for all modes of loading, normal or accidental, and throughout its life. In the context of the nuclear safety, for the most important structures such as the tank or the primary circuit, the presence of a degradation in these structures grouping several aspects, such as cracks created during welding. We seek then, to show the mechanical resistance for this defect mode. It also seeks to fit the mechanical resistance of a structure in the presence of a crack when the defects have been detected during an inspection. In this context, the fracture mechanics provides the necessary tools to analyze cracked components. Its purpose is to establish a fracture criterion to foreordain the loading margins in normal or accidental operating conditions. Each type of rupture must be the subject of a specific characterization.

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