INTRODucnONThe structural size effect is the central problem in predictions of fltacture. Fracture tests are normally conducted on relatively small specimens, and fracture theories are usual~y verified in the laboratory by testing relatively small ,*ams or panels. In practice, we then dare to extrapola~e this information to structures which are often far larger than anything tested. This, of course, cannot be done I reliably without a sound, realistic fracture theory. 'For the initiation of cracks in a body without,cks and stress concentrations, the concept of stfi:,' :1 is acceptable. Not so, however when a sharp crack, .:ady exists. The elastic analysis then yields infinite strf'~S at the crack front, and the strength criterion inc,' c~ctly predicts the crack to extend at an infinitely sma) ,oad. When a finite element mesh is refined, the load '1i.:edc!d to reach the strength limit strongly depends u: the choice of element size and incorrectly converges tc le:-o. Thus, the elastic finite element analysis of cracking based on the strength criterion, as currently used in 0025-5432/1983/155/$ 5,00/ ~ BORDAS-DUNOD 155 Materials and Structures 16: 155-177, 1983