Mixed-mode fracture and microstructural aspects of crack propagation

Abstract

Even though most of literature on fracture mechanics for ceramics and glasses is devoted to failure in mode I, the normal operation of many devices is under mixed-mode loading which makes the studies much more complex. In this regard, the present article reviews and summarizes information concerning mixed-mode basic concepts, fracture criteria, various type of samples and testing and, finally, microstructural evaluations of glasses and ceramic materials.