Abstract
The use of a microhardness indentation as a controlled flaw in a flexural specimen for measuring fracture toughness in advanced ceramics is critically evaluated. From a review of fracture-toughness testing methodologies for ceramics it is shown that currently there are not any standardized or widely agreed uponK Ic test procedures. The problems associated with the controlled flaw test are discussed and analyzed. An experimental program is used to investigate the effects of residual stress on the measurement of fracture toughness in a wide variety of sintered and hot-pressed advanced ceramics including TiB2, Al2O3, SiC, ZrO2, Si3N4. The validity of the test procedure for evaluatingK Ic of advanced ceramics in general is put forth.
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Nayeb-Hashemi, H., Tracy, C. Microhardness indentation application and limitation in fracture-toughness evaluation of ceramics. Experimental Mechanics 31, 366–372 (1991). https://doi.org/10.1007/BF02325995
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DOI: https://doi.org/10.1007/BF02325995