Mechanics of microcrack toughening in ceramics
The formation of a crack tip process zone consisting of stress induced microcracks has been observed to modify the fracture toughness of a material. In single phase polycrystalline ceramics with microstructural residual stresses due to thermal contraction anisotropy, the grain size dependence of fracture toughness is attributed to the microcrack toughening effect. Associated with the process are several unique features; namely, the microstructural threshold for the onset of microcrack toughening and an R-curve characteristic. A theoretical analysis of the mechanics of microcrack toughening, parallel to that conducted by Budiansky et al for transformation toughening, is conducted, whereupon the basis of these unique features are established.
- Research Organization:
- Lawrence Livermore National Lab., CA (USA)
- DOE Contract Number:
- AC03-76SF00098
- OSTI ID:
- 5598248
- Report Number(s):
- LBL-16839; ON: DE84004638
- Country of Publication:
- United States
- Language:
- English
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Related Subjects
360203* -- Ceramics
Cermets
& Refractories-- Mechanical Properties
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75 CONDENSED MATTER PHYSICS
SUPERCONDUCTIVITY AND SUPERFLUIDITY
CERAMICS
CRACK PROPAGATION
CRACKS
CRYSTAL STRUCTURE
CRYSTALS
FRACTURE MECHANICS
GRAIN BOUNDARIES
GRAIN SIZE
MECHANICS
MICROSTRUCTURE
POLYCRYSTALS
RESIDUAL STRESSES
SIZE
STRESS INTENSITY FACTORS
STRESSES