Tensile failure criterion
= Tensile failure criterion
{title2=$\sigma_3^{\prime}=-T_0$}
= Tensile failure
{synonym}
In the simplest strength-cutoff model, opening begins when the least compressive <effective stress> reaches minus the <tensile strength>: $\sigma'_3=-T_0$ with compression positive. In <Mohr's circle>, this is contact with the vertical line $\sigma'_n=-T_0$ at $\tau=0$. The criterion represents an opening mechanism and differs from frictional <shear failure>.