Toughening of interface networks through the introduction of weak links
Source abstract
Abstract
Abstract The resistance of polycrystalline materials to intergranular fracture depends on the toughness of the interfaces between neighboring grains. Using finite element simulations on model, two-dimensional microstructures, we demonstrate that the steady-state crack growth resistance of a polycrystal that contains exclusively high toughness interfaces is suboptimal: its crack growth resistance may be increased by introducing a minority fraction of weak interfaces at random locations within the interface network. Furthermore, the weaker are these interfaces, the greater is their toughening effect. These weak interfaces toughen the material through crack deflection and branching, nucleation of secondary cracks, and inelastic dissipation within intact interfaces. Our findings suggest that fracture resistance-oriented material development should not aim to eliminate all weak interfaces, but rather judiciously incorporate a low fraction of them.
Source: openaire · Quality: candidate unverified · Source record ↗
Research context
OpenAlex topics: Rock Mechanics and Modeling · Microstructure and mechanical properties · Fatigue and fracture mechanics
SciVX discovery tags are terminology-based. OpenAlex topics are source-provided classifications.
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