Abstract: A method of finite element modeling of fatigue crack growth and closu re behavior is presented. The cyclic plastic hardening behavior of materials is taken into account. The chosen cyclic plasticity constitutive model has been exa min ed. After a discussion about the influence of finite element mesh on the numerical results, a mesh optimization criterion is suggested. Employing the suggested mumerical method and considering the crack closure effect, we investigate the evolution of the profile of crac...