Procedure improves line pipe Charpy test interpretation

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Rosenfeld, M.J.

1997-04-14

The Charpy V-notch (CVN) impact test is a method of characterizing a line-pipe material`s notch toughness and resistance to fracture growth. Although CVN testing of line pipe material is routine, test results are sometimes misinterpreted because of specimen size and load rate on actual toughness transition behavior. These effects are readily accounted for by a simple mathematical procedure, offered here, which enables extrapolation of the full-scale transition curve from as little as a single subsize specimen test. This procedure is useful when the toughness transition curve is incomplete or nonexistent. Toughness data may be incomplete because the API 5L toughnessmore » test establishes minimum performance at a single temperature, which does not reveal the full transition curve. Toughness data may be nonexistent because the first requirements for toughness testing of line pipe appeared in the 16th Edition of API 5LX in 1969, and those requirements remain at the option of the purchaser today.« less

Laser notching ceramics for reliable fracture toughness testing

DOE PAGES

Barth, Holly D.; Elmer, John W.; Freeman, Dennis C.; ...

2015-09-19

A new method for notching ceramics was developed using a picosecond laser for fracture toughness testing of alumina samples. The test geometry incorporated a single-edge-V-notch that was notched using picosecond laser micromachining. This method has been used in the past for cutting ceramics, and is known to remove material with little to no thermal effect on the surrounding material matrix. This study showed that laser-assisted-machining for fracture toughness testing of ceramics was reliable, quick, and cost effective. In order to assess the laser notched single-edge-V-notch beam method, fracture toughness results were compared to results from other more traditional methods, specificallymore » surface-crack in flexure and the chevron notch bend tests. Lastly, the results showed that picosecond laser notching produced precise notches in post-failure measurements, and that the measured fracture toughness results showed improved consistency compared to traditional fracture toughness methods.« less

Improving the mechanical properties of nano-hydroxyapatite

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Khanal, Suraj Prasad

Hydroxyapatite (HAp) is an ideal bioactive material that is used in orthopedics. Chemical composition and crystal structure properties of HAp are similar to the natural bone hence it promotes bone growth. However, its mechanical properties of synthetic HAp are not sufficient for major load-bearing bone replacement. The potential of improving the mechanical properties of synthetic hydroxyapatite (HAp) by incorporating carboxyl functionalized single walled carbon nanotubes (CfSWCNT) and polymerized epsilon-caprolactam (nylon) is studied. The fracture toughness, tensile strength, Young's modulus, stiffness and fracture energy were studied for a series of HAp samples with CfSWCNT concentrations varying from 0 to 1.5 wt. % without, and with nylon addition. X-ray diffraction (XRD), Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM), Transmission Electron Microscopy (TEM) and Differential Scanning Calorimetry (DSC) were used to characterize the samples. The fracture toughness and tensile test was performed under the standard protocol of ASTM D5045 and ASTM D638-02a respectively. Reproducible maximum values of (3.60 +/- 0.3) MPa.m1/2 for fracture toughness and 65.38 MPa for tensile strength were measured for samples containing 1 wt. % CfSWCNT and nylon. The Young's modulus, stiffness and fracture energy of the samples are 10.65 GPa, 1482.12 N/mm, and 644 J/m2 respectively. These values are comparable to those of the cortical bone. Further increase of the CfSWCNT content results to a decreased fracture toughness and tensile strength and formation of a secondary phase.

Over-Aging Effect on Fracture Toughness of Beryllium Copper Alloy C17200

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Jen, Kei-Peng; Xu, Liqun; Hylinski, Steven; Gildersleeve, Nate

2008-10-01

This study experimentally increased the fracture toughness of Beryllium Copper (CuBe) UNS C17200 alloy using three different age hardening processes. At the same time, the micro- and macro-fracture behavior of this alloy were comprehensively studied. ASTM E399 fracture toughness, tensile, and Charpy impact tests were conducted for all three heat-treated rods. The fracture surfaces were examined under both an optical microscope and a scanning electron microscope to investigate the failure mechanisms. Multiple test orientations were considered to explore isotropy. Increasing the temperature and duration at which age hardening was performed increased fracture toughness while decreasing ultimate tensile strength. The maximum fracture toughness was reached on the most overaged specimen, while retaining a serviceable tensile strength. The specimen test data allowed a relationship to be established among Charpy impact toughness, fracture toughness, and yield strength. Analysis of fracture behavior revealed an interesting relationship between fracture toughness and pre-cracking fatigue propagation rate.

TRITIUM EFFECTS ON WELDMENT FRACTURE TOUGHNESS

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Morgan, M; Michael Tosten, M; Scott West, S

2006-07-17

The effects of tritium on the fracture toughness properties of Type 304L stainless steel and its weldments were measured. Fracture toughness data are needed for assessing tritium reservoir structural integrity. This report provides data from J-Integral fracture toughness tests on unexposed and tritium-exposed weldments. The effect of tritium on weldment toughness has not been measured until now. The data include tests on tritium-exposed weldments after aging for up to three years to measure the effect of increasing decay helium concentration on toughness. The results indicate that Type 304L stainless steel weldments have high fracture toughness and are resistant to tritiummore » aging effects on toughness. For unexposed alloys, weldment fracture toughness was higher than base metal toughness. Tritium-exposed-and-aged base metals and weldments had lower toughness values than unexposed ones but still retained good toughness properties. In both base metals and weldments there was an initial reduction in fracture toughness after tritium exposure but little change in fracture toughness values with increasing helium content in the range tested. Fracture modes occurred by the dimpled rupture process in unexposed and tritium-exposed steels and welds. This corroborates further the resistance of Type 304L steel to tritium embrittlement. This report fulfills the requirements for the FY06 Level 3 milestone, TSR15.3 ''Issue summary report for tritium reservoir material aging studies'' for the Enhanced Surveillance Campaign (ESC). The milestone was in support of ESC L2-1866 Milestone-''Complete an annual Enhanced Surveillance stockpile aging assessment report to support the annual assessment process''.« less

Partial Removal of Pore and Loosely Bound Water by Low-Energy Drying Decreases Cortical Bone Toughness in Young and Old Donors

PubMed Central

Nyman, Jeffry S.; Gorochow, Lacey E.; Horch, R. Adam; Uppuganti, Sasidhar; Zein-Sabatto, Ahbid; Manhard, Mary Katherine; Does, Mark D.

2012-01-01

With an ability to quantify matrix-bound and pore water in bone, 1H nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR) relaxometry can potentially be implemented in clinical imaging to assess the fracture resistance of bone in a way that is independent of current X-ray techniques, which assess bone mineral density as a correlate of bone strength. Working towards that goal, we quantified the effect of partial dehydration in air on the mechanical and NMR properties of human cortical bone in order to understand whether NMR is sensitive to water-bone interactions at low energy and whether such interactions contribute to the age-related difference in the toughness of bone. Cadaveric femurs were collected from male and female donors falling into two age groups: 21 to 60 years of age (young) and 74 to 99 years of age (old). After extracting two samples from the medial cortex of the mid-shaft, tensile tests were conducted on Wet specimens and paired, Partially Dry (PtlD) specimens (prepared by low-energy drying in air to remove ~3% of original mass before testing). Prior analysis by micro-computed tomography found that there were no differences in intra-cortical porosity between the Wet and PtlD specimens nor did an age-related difference in porosity exist. PtlD specimens from young and old donors had significantly less toughness than Wet specimens, primarily due to a dehydration-related decrease in post-yield strain. The low-energy drying protocol did not affect the modulus and yield strength of bone. Subsequent dehydration of the PtlD specimens in a vacuum oven at 62 °C and then 103 °C, with quantification of water loss at each temperature, revealed an age-related shift from more loosely bound water to more tightly bound water. NMR detected a change in both bound and pore water pools with low-energy air-drying, and both pools were effectively removed when bone was oven-dried at 62 °C, irrespective of donor age. Although not strictly significant due to variability in the drying and testing conditions, the absolute difference in toughness between Wet and PtlD tended to be greater for the younger donors that had higher bone toughness and more bound water for the wet condition than did the older donors. With sensitivity to low-energy bone-water interactions, NMR, which underpins magnetic resonance imaging, has potential to assess fracture resistance of bone as it relates to bone toughness. PMID:23631897

Partial removal of pore and loosely bound water by low-energy drying decreases cortical bone toughness in young and old donors.

PubMed

Nyman, Jeffry S; Gorochow, Lacey E; Adam Horch, R; Uppuganti, Sasidhar; Zein-Sabatto, Ahbid; Manhard, Mary Katherine; Does, Mark D

2013-06-01

With an ability to quantify matrix-bound and pore water in bone, (1)H nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR) relaxometry can potentially be implemented in clinical imaging to assess the fracture resistance of bone in a way that is independent of current X-ray techniques, which assess bone mineral density as a correlate of bone strength. Working towards that goal, we quantified the effect of partial dehydration in air on the mechanical and NMR properties of human cortical bone in order to understand whether NMR is sensitive to water-bone interactions at low energy and whether such interactions contribute to the age-related difference in the toughness of bone. Cadaveric femurs were collected from male and female donors falling into two age groups: 21-60 years of age (young) and 74-99 years of age (old). After extracting two samples from the medial cortex of the mid-shaft, tensile tests were conducted on Wet specimens and paired, Partially Dry (PtlD) specimens (prepared by low-energy drying in air to remove ∼3% of original mass before testing). Prior analysis by micro-computed tomography found that there were no differences in intra-cortical porosity between the Wet and PtlD specimens nor did an age-related difference in porosity exist. PtlD specimens from young and old donors had significantly less toughness than Wet specimens, primarily due to a dehydration-related decrease in post-yield strain. The low-energy drying protocol did not affect the modulus and yield strength of bone. Subsequent dehydration of the PtlD specimens in a vacuum oven at 62°C and then 103°C, with quantification of water loss at each temperature, revealed an age-related shift from more loosely bound water to more tightly bound water. NMR detected a change in both bound and pore water pools with low-energy air-drying, and both pools were effectively removed when bone was oven-dried at 62°C, irrespective of donor age. Although not strictly significant due to variability in the drying and testing conditions, the absolute difference in toughness between Wet and PtlD tended to be greater for the younger donors that had higher bone toughness and more bound water for the wet condition than did the older donors. With sensitivity to low-energy bone-water interactions, NMR, which underpins magnetic resonance imaging, has potential to assess fracture resistance of bone as it relates to bone toughness. Published by Elsevier Ltd.

Aspects of fracture mechanics in cryogenic model design. Part 2: NTF materials

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Newman, J. C., Jr.; Lisagor, W. B.

1983-01-01

Results of fatigue crack growth and fracture toughness tests conducted on three candidate materials are presented. Fatigue crack growth and fracture toughness tests were conducted on NITRONIC 40 at room temperature and -275 F. Fracture toughness tests were also conducted on Vascomax 200 and 250 maraging steel from room temperature to -320 F. NITRONIC 40 was used to make the Pathfinder 1 model. The fatigue crack growth rate tests were conducted at room temperature and -275 F on three-point notch bend specimens. The fracture toughness tests on the as received and stress relieved materials at -275 F were conducted on the center crack tension specimens. Toughness tests were also conducted on Vascomax CVM-200 and CVM-250 maraging steel from room temperature to -320 F using round and rectangular compact specimens.

Fracture toughness testing of polymer matrix composites

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Grady, Joseph E.

1992-01-01

A review of the interlaminar fracture indicates that a standard specimen geometry is needed to obtain consistent fracture toughness measurements in polymer matrix composites. In general, the variability of measured toughness values increases as the toughness of the material increases. This variability could be caused by incorrect sizing of test specimens and/or inconsistent data reduction procedures. A standard data reduction procedure is therefore needed as well, particularly for the tougher materials. Little work has been reported on the effects of fiber orientation, fiber architecture, fiber surface treatment or interlaminar fracture toughness, and the mechanisms by which the fibers increase fracture toughness are not well understood. The little data that is available indicates that woven fiber reinforcement and fiber sizings can significantly increase interlaminar fracture toughness.

Ultrasonic ranking of toughness of tungsten carbide

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Vary, A.; Hull, D. R.

1983-01-01

The feasibility of using ultrasonic attenuation measurements to rank tungsten carbide alloys according to their fracture toughness was demonstrated. Six samples of cobalt-cemented tungsten carbide (WC-Co) were examined. These varied in cobalt content from approximately 2 to 16 weight percent. The toughness generally increased with increasing cobalt content. Toughness was first determined by the Palmqvist and short rod fracture toughness tests. Subsequently, ultrasonic attenuation measurements were correlated with both these mechanical test methods. It is shown that there is a strong increase in ultrasonic attenuation corresponding to increased toughness of the WC-Co alloys. A correlation between attenuation and toughness exists for a wide range of ultrasonic frequencies. However, the best correlation for the WC-Co alloys occurs when the attenuation coefficient measured in the vicinity of 100 megahertz is compared with toughness as determined by the Palmqvist technique.

Interfacial strength development in thermoplastic resins and fiber-reinforced thermoplastic composites

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Howes, Jeremy C.; Loos, Alfred C.

1987-01-01

An experimental program to develop test methods to be used to characterize interfacial (autohesive) strength development in polysulfone thermoplastic resin and graphite-polysulfone prepreg during processing is reported. Two test methods were used to examine interfacial strength development in neat resin samples. These included an interfacial tension test and a compact tension (CT) fracture toughness test. The interfacial tensile test proved to be very difficult to perform with a considerable amount of data scatter. Thus, the interfacial test was discarded in favor of the fracture toughness test. Interfacial strength development was observed by measuring the refracture toughness of precracked compact tension specimens that were rehealed at a given temperature and contact time. The measured refracture toughness was correlated with temperature and contact time. Interfacial strength development in graphite-polysulfone unidirectional composites was measured using a double cantilever beam (DCB) interlaminar fracture toughness test. The critical strain energy release rate of refractured composite specimens was measured as a function of healing temperature and contact time.

Comparison of Mode II and III Monotonic and Fatigue Delamination Onset Behavior for Carbon/Toughened Epoxy Composites

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Li, Jian; OBrien, T. Kevin; Lee, Shaw Ming

1997-01-01

Monotonic and fatigue tests were performed to compare the Mode II and III interlaminar fracture toughness and fatigue delamination onset for Tenax-HTA/R6376 carbon/toughened epoxy composites. The Mode II interlaminar fracture toughness and fatigue delamination onset were characterized using the end-notched flexure (ENF) test while the Mode III interlaminar fracture toughness and fatigue delamination onset were characterized by using the edge crack torsion (ECT) test. Monotonic tests show that the Mode III fracture toughness is higher than the Mode II fracture toughness. Both Mode II and III cyclic loading greatly increases the tendency for a delamination to grow relative to a single monotonically increasing load. Under fatigue loading, the Mode III specimen also has a longer life than the Mode II specimen.

Effect of Thermal Aging and Test Temperatures on Fracture Toughness of SS 316(N) Welds

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Dutt, B. Shashank; Babu, M. Nani; Shanthi, G.; Moitra, A.; Sasikala, G.

2018-03-01

The effect of thermal aging and test temperatures on fracture toughness (J 0.2) of SS 316(N) weld material has been studied based on J-R curve evaluations. The aging of the welds was carried out at temperatures 370, 475 and 550 °C and for durations varying from 1000 to 20,000 h. The fracture toughness (J-R curve) tests were carried out at 380 and 550 °C for specimens after all aging conditions, including as-weld condition. The initiation fracture toughness (J 0.2) of the SS 316(N) weld material has shown degradation after 20,000-h aging durations and is reflected in all the test temperatures and aging temperatures. The fracture toughness after different aging conditions and test temperatures, including as-weld condition, was higher than the minimum specified value for this class of welds.

Toughness characterization by small specimen test technique for HIPed joints of F82H steel aiming at first wall fabrication in fusion

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Kishimoto, H.; Ono, T.; Sakasegawa, H.; Tanigawa, H.; Kohno, Y.; Kohyama, A.

2013-09-01

Reduced activation ferritic/martensitic steels (RAFMs), such as F82H steels, have been developed as candidates of structural materials for fusion. In the design of a fusion reactor, cooling channels are built in the first wall of the blanket. One large issue is to determine how to join rectangular tubes to thin panels to fabricate the first wall. Hot Isostatic Pressing (HIPing) is a solution to solve the issue. Because of the thin HIPed walls of the channels, the specimen size for inspection of HIPed interface is limited. In the present research, Small Specimen Test Techniques (SSTT) are screened for the destructive toughness investigation technique of HIPed F82H joints. 1/3 size Charpy V-notch impact (1/3 CVN) and small punch (SP) tests are employed for the present research. The toughness of the HIPed joints is strongly affected by various surface finishing of specimens treated previous to the HIPing. In the present research, several kinds of HIPed joints were surface finished by different methods and investigated by 1/3 CVN impact test. The HIPed F82H joints had different toughness ranging from 20% to 70% of the toughness of the F82H base metal. The SP test is also available for the investigation of toughness change by the HIPing. The sensitivity of 1/3 CVN impact test against toughness change was better than the SP test, it revealed that the SP test has some limitations.

Fracture toughness of advanced ceramics at room temperature

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Quinn, George D.; Salem, Jonathan; Bar-On, Isa; Cho, Kyu; Foley, Michael; Fang, HO

1992-01-01

Results of round-robin fracture toughness tests on advanced ceramics are reported. A gas-pressure silicon nitride and a zirconia-toughened alumina were tested using three test methods: indentation fracture, indentation strength, and single-edge precracked beam. The latter two methods have produced consistent results. The interpretation of fracture toughness test results for the zirconia alumina composite is shown to be complicated by R-curve and environmentally assisted crack growth phenomena.

A modified correlation between KJIC and Charpy V-notch impact energy of Chinese SA508-III steel at the upper shelf

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Li, Xiangqing; Song, Yuxuan; Ding, Zhenyu; Bao, Shiyi; Gao, Zengliang

2018-07-01

The fracture toughness plays a significant role in the structural integrity assessment of reactor pressure vessels (RPVs) in service temperature. The Charpy V-notch (CVN) impact test is used to estimate fracture toughness (KIC or KJIC) indirectly since universal fracture toughness tests are costly, sophisticated and frequently invalid. In this study, a modified correlation which based on the typical model of KJIC-CVN at the upper shelf was established for Chinese SA508-III steel. Thereinto, the effect of test temperature (T) was directly considered in the correlation. To assess the accuracy of fracture toughness when calculating from the value of Charpy-V notch impact energy by using the modified correlation, both the Charpy-V notch impact tests and fracture toughness tests for Chinese SA508-III steel were conducted at different temperatures (100 °C, 150 °C, 200 °C, 250 °C and 320 °C). The results showed that the modified correlation exhibited the high precision for estimating fracture toughness of Chinese SA508-III steel and the relative error for tested and estimated results is within 8%, which is lower than that of other correlations.

Fracture toughness of dentin/resin-composite adhesive interfaces.

PubMed

Tam, L E; Pilliar, R M

1993-05-01

The reliability and validity of tensile and shear bond strength determinations of dentin-bonded interfaces have been questioned. The fracture toughness value (KIC) reflects the ability of a material to resist crack initiation and unstable propagation. When applied to an adhesive interface, it should account for both interfacial bond strength and inherent defects at or near the interface, and should therefore be more appropriate for characterization of interface fracture resistance. This study introduced a fracture toughness test for the assessment of dentin/resin-composite bonded interfaces. The miniature short-rod specimen geometry was used for fracture toughness testing. Each specimen contained a tooth slice, sectioned from a bovine incisor, to form the bonded interface. The fracture toughness of an enamel-bonded interface was assessed in addition to the dentin-bonded interfaces. Tensile bond strength specimens were also prepared from the dentin surfaces of the cut bovine incisors. A minimum of ten specimens was fabricated for each group of materials tested. After the specimens were aged for 24 h in distilled water at 37 degrees C, the specimens were loaded to failure in an Instron universal testing machine. There were significant differences (p < 0.05) between the dental adhesives tested. Generally, both the fracture toughness and tensile bond strength measurements were highest for AllBond 2, intermediate for 3M MultiPurpose, and lowest for Scotchbond 2. Scanning electron microscopy of the fractured specimen halves confirmed that crack propagation occurred along the bond interface during the fracture toughness test. It was therefore concluded that the mini-short-rod fracture toughness test provided a valid method for characterization of the fracture resistance of the dentin-resin composite interface.

Metallurgical Examination of Failed T-158 Cast Austempered Ductile Iron (CADI) Track Shoes

DTIC Science & Technology

1994-06-01

hardness testing, fracture toughness testing and Charpy impact testing were performed. In each case, the largest possible specimens were fabricated...However, due to geometrical restrictions, the tensile, fracture toughness and impact specimens were subsized . Tensile Testing Tensile coupons were...at 5OOoF for 4 hours. Mag. 1000x. 36 ‘_ Fracture Face A bolt holes Fracture Face C T = Tensile FT = Fracture Toughness NC =Notched Charpy Impact UN

Fracture-Toughness Analysis in Transition-Temperature Region of Three American Petroleum Institute X70 and X80 Pipeline Steels

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Shin, Sang Yong; Woo, Kuk Je; Hwang, Byoungchul; Kim, Sangho; Lee, Sunghak

2009-04-01

The fracture toughness in the transition-temperature region of three American Petroleum Institute (API) X70 and X80 pipeline steels was analyzed in accordance with the American Society for Testing and Materials (ASTM) E1921-05 standard test method. The elastic-plastic cleavage fracture toughness ( K Jc ) was determined by three-point bend tests, using precracked Charpy V-notch (PCVN) specimens; the measured K Jc values were then interpreted by the three-parameter Weibull distribution. The fracture-toughness test results indicated that the master curve and the 98 pct confidence curves explained the variation in the measured fracture toughness well. The reference temperatures obtained from the fracture-toughness test and index temperatures obtained from the Charpy impact test were lowest in the X70 steel rolled in the two-phase region, because this steel had smaller effective grains and the lowest volume fraction of hard phases. In this steel, few hard phases led to a higher resistance to cleavage crack initiation, and the smaller effective grain size led to a higher possibility of crack arrest, thereby resulting in the best overall fracture properties. Measured reference temperatures were then comparatively analyzed with the index temperatures obtained from the Charpy impact test, and the effects of microstructures on these temperatures were discussed.

Characteristics of laminates with delamination control strips

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Sun, C. T.; Goering, J. C.; Alper, J. M.; Gause, L. W.

1992-01-01

Tough resin is needed to resist delamination crack propagation. However, modulus often has to be compromised because it is difficult to retain both high modulus and toughness in a matrix material. A potential solution is to use a hybrid system in which tough resin strips are included within a conventional matrix composite. By adjusting the spacing of the tough resin strips, maximum delamination size can be controlled. Experimental results for impact damage and subsequent damage propagation in laminates containing tough resin strips are reported. Plain adhesive strips and fiber-reinforced tough resin composite strips were used in constructing the hybrid laminates. Test results indicated that size of delamination inflicted by impact was confined between the tough resin strips. As a result, significantly increased residual compressive strength was obtained. Impacted laminates containing tough resin strips were also fatigue tested. It was found that these strips reduced the growth of the impact damage area relative to the growth seen in coupons with no tough resin strips. Damage growth from an open hole under tension fatigue was evaluated using both tough resin strips and glass fiber reinforced tough resin strips. Unreinforced tough resin strips retarded delamination growth from the open hole, but did not stop matrix cracks growing in the fiber direction. Fiber reinforced tough resin strips did not contain axial delamination growth from the open hole. However, they did act as crack arresters, stopping the through-the-thickness tension crack originating from the hole.

Dynamic Fracture Toughness Evaluation by Measurement of CTOD (Crack Tip Opening Displacement).

DTIC Science & Technology

1988-03-15

fracture toughness of structural steels were reported by Shoemaker and Rolfe [1]; these and similar results are also presented in the text by Rolfe and...8217 MPaV/-m/s. Following the dynamic tests of Shoemaker and Rolfe , extensions of the familiar ASTM E-399 static fracture toughness tests were examined. This...s.V.: **.4* .4 5, -~ 5 5 - 𔃿 .4.4 References [1] Shoemaker, A.K. and Rolfe , S.T., "The Static and Dynamic Low-Temperature Crack-Toughness

The development of in situ fracture toughness evaluation techniques in hydrogen environment

DOE PAGES

Wang, John Jy-An; Ren, Fei; Tan, Tin; ...

2014-12-19

Reliability of hydrogen pipelines and storage tanks is significantly influenced by the mechanical performance of the structural materials exposed in the hydrogen environment. Fracture behavior and fracture toughness are of specific interest since they are relevant to many catastrophic failures. However, many conventional fracture testing techniques are difficult to be realized under the presence of hydrogen. Thus it is desired to develop novel in situ techniques to study the fracture behavior of structural materials in hydrogen environments. In this study, special testing apparatus were designed to facilitate in situ fracture testing in H 2. A torsional fixture was developed tomore » utilize an emerging fracture testing technique, Spiral Notch Torsion Test (SNTT). The design concepts will be discussed. Preliminary in situ testing results indicated that the exposure to H 2 significantly reduces the fracture toughness of 4340 high strength steels by up to 50 percent. Furthermore, SNTT tests conducted in air demonstrated a significant fracture toughness reduction in samples subject to simulated welding heat treatment using Gleeble, which illustrated the effect of welding on the fracture toughness of this material.« less

A proposed standard round compact specimen for plane strain fracture toughness testing

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Underwood, J. H.; Newman, J. C., Jr.; Seeley, R. R.

1980-01-01

A round, disk-shaped specimen is proposed as a standard test specimen for addition to ASTM Test for Plane-Strain Fracture Toughness of Metallic Materials (E 399-78A). The specimen is diametrically cracked, and loaded in the same way as the existing standard compact specimen. Tests and analyses were performed to verify that the proposed round compact specimen and associated stress intensity factor K solution are appropriate for a standard plane strain fracture toughness test. The use of the round compact specimen for other fracture tests is described.

Continuum Damage Modeling for Dynamic Fracture Toughness of Metal Matrix Composites

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Lee, Intaek; Ochi, Yasuo; Bae, Sungin; Song, Jungil

Short fiber reinforced metal-matrix composites (MMCs) have widely adopted as structural materials and many experimental researches have been performed to study fracture toughness of it. Fracture toughness is often referred as the plane strain(maximum constraint) fracture toughness KIc determined by the well-established standard test method, such as ASTM E399. But the application for dynamic fracture toughness KId has not been popular yet, because of reliance in capturing the crack propagating time. This paper deals with dynamic fracture toughness testing and simulation using finite element method to evaluate fracture behaviors of MMCs manufactured by squeeze casting process when material combination is varied with the type of reinforcement (appearance, size), volume fraction and combination of reinforcements, and the matrix alloy. The instrumented Charphy impact test was used for KId determination and continuum damage model embedded in commercial FE program is used to investigate the dynamic fracture toughness with the influence of elasto-visco-plastic constitutive relation of quasi-brittle fracture that is typical examples of ceramics and some fibre reinforced composites. With Compared results between experimental method and FE simulation, the determination process for KId is presented. FE simulation coupled with continuum damage model is emphasized single shot simulation can predict the dynamic fracture toughness, KId and real time evolution of that directly.

Investigation of temperature dependence of fracture toughness in high-dose HT9 steel using small-specimen reuse technique

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Baek, Jong-Hyuk; Byun, Thak Sang; Maloy, Start A.; Toloczko, Mychailo B.

2014-01-01

The temperature dependence of fracture toughness in HT9 steel irradiated to 3-145 dpa at 380-503 °C was investigated using miniature three-point bend (TPB) fracture specimens. A miniature-specimen reuse technique has been established: the tested halves of subsize Charpy impact specimens with dimensions of 27 mm × 3 mm × 4 mm were reused for this fracture test campaign by cutting a notch with a diamond-saw in the middle of each half, and by fatigue-precracking to generate a sharp crack tip. It was confirmed that the fracture toughness of HT9 steel in the dose range depends more strongly on the irradiation temperature than the irradiation dose. At an irradiation temperature <430 °C, the fracture toughness of irradiated HT9 increased with the test temperature, reached an upper shelf of 180-200 MPa √{m} at 350-450 °C, and then decreased with the test temperature. At an irradiation temperature ⩾430 °C, the fracture toughness was nearly unchanged up to about 450 °C and decreased slowly with test temperatures in a higher temperature range. Such a rather monotonic test temperature dependence after high-temperature irradiation is similar to that observed for an archive material generally showing a higher degree of toughness. A brittle fracture without stable crack growth occurred in only a few specimens with relatively lower irradiation and test temperatures. In this discussion, these TPB fracture toughness data are compared with previously published data from 12.7 mm diameter disc compact tension (DCT) specimens.

Investigation of temperature dependence of fracture toughness in high-dose HT9 steel using small-specimen reuse technique

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Baek, Jong-Hyuk; Byun, Thak Sang; Maloy, S

2014-01-01

The temperature dependence of fracture toughness in HT9 steel irradiated to 3 145 dpa at 380 503 C was investigated using miniature three-point bend (TPB) fracture specimens. A miniature-specimen reuse technique has been established: the tested halves of subsize Charpy impact specimens with dimensions of 27 mm 3mm 4 mm were reused for this fracture test campaign by cutting a notch with a diamond-saw in the middle of each half, and by fatigue-precracking to generate a sharp crack tip. It was confirmed that the fracture toughness of HT9 steel in the dose range depends more strongly on the irradiation temperaturemore » than the irradiation dose. At an irradiation temperature <430 C, the fracture toughness of irradiated HT9 increased with the test temperature, reached an upper shelf of 180 200 MPa ffiffiffiffiffi m p at 350 450 C, and then decreased with the test temperature. At an irradiation temperatureP430 C, the fracture toughness was nearly unchanged up to about 450 C and decreased slowly with test temperatures in a higher temperature range. Such a rather monotonic test temperature dependence after high-temperature irradiation is similar to that observed for an archive material generally showing a higher degree of toughness. A brittle fracture without stable crack growth occurred in only a few specimens with relatively lower irradiation and test temperatures. In this discussion, these TPB fracture toughness data are compared with previously published data from 12.7 mm diameter disc compact tension (DCT) specimens.« less

Results of ASTM round robin testing for mode 1 interlaminar fracture toughness of composite materials

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Obrien, T. Kevin; Martin, Roderick H.

1992-01-01

The results are summarized of several interlaboratory 'round robin' test programs for measuring the mode 1 interlaminar fracture toughness of advanced fiber reinforced composite materials. Double Cantilever Beam (DCB) tests were conducted by participants in ASTM committee D30 on High Modulus Fibers and their Composites and by representatives of the European Group on Fracture (EGF) and the Japanese Industrial Standards Group (JIS). DCB tests were performed on three AS4 carbon fiber reinforced composite materials: AS4/3501-6 with a brittle epoxy matrix; AS4/BP907 with a tough epoxy matrix; and AS4/PEEK with a tough thermoplastic matrix. Difficulties encountered in manufacturing panels, as well as conducting the tests are discussed. Critical issues that developed during the course of the testing are highlighted. Results of the round robin testing used to determine the precision of the ASTM DCB test standard are summarized.

Effect of Elevated Temperature and Loading Rate on Delamination Fracture Toughness

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Reeder, J. R.; Allen, D. H.; Bradley, W. L.

2003-01-01

The effects of temperature and loading rate on delamination growth were studied. The delamination fracture toughness of IM7/K3B was measured at 149 C, 177 C, and 204 C. At each temperature the tests were performed with a variety of loading rates so that the delamination initiated over the range of time from 0.5 sec to 24 hrs. The double cantilever beam (DCB) test was used to measure fracture toughness. The results showed that the delamination resistance is a complicated function of both time and temperature with the effect of temperature either increasing or decreasing the fracture toughness depending on the time scale. The results also showed that the fracture toughness changed by as much as a factor of three as the time scale changed over the five orders of magnitude tested.

Collaboration: The Motown Method

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Preddy, Leslie

2008-01-01

Teaching today is a challenge. It is tough to design and build instruction every day. It is tough to find the balance between standardized tests, state standards, and best practices. It is tough to help students who think they are information literate understand that they are not. One of the best ways for educators to meet these tough challenges…

Effect of tritium and decay helium on the fracture toughness properties of stainless steel weldments

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Morgan, M. J.; West, S.; Tosten, M. H.

2008-07-15

J-Integral fracture toughness tests were conducted on tritium-exposed-and- aged Types 304L and 21-6-9 stainless steel weldments in order to measure the combined effects of tritium and its decay product, helium-3 on the fracture toughness properties. Initially, weldments have fracture toughness values about three times higher than base-metal values. Delta-ferrite phase in the weld microstructure improved toughness provided no tritium was present in the microstructure. After a tritium-exposure-and-aging treatment that resulted in {approx}1400 atomic parts per million (appm) dissolved tritium, both weldments and base metals had their fracture toughness values reduced to about the same level. The tritium effect was greatermore » in weldments (67 % reduction vs. 37% reduction) largely because the ductile discontinuous delta-ferrite phase was embrittled by tritium and decay helium. For both base metals and weldments, fracture toughness values decreased with increasing decay helium content in the range tested (50-800 appm). (authors)« less

TRITIUM AND DECAY HELIUM EFFECTS ON THE FRACTURE TOUGHNESS PROPERTIES OF STAINLESS STEEL WELDMENTS

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Morgan, M; Scott West, S; Michael Tosten, M

2007-08-31

J-Integral fracture toughness tests were conducted on tritium-exposed-and-aged Types 304L and 21-6-9 stainless steel weldments in order to measure the combined effects of tritium and its decay product, helium-3 on the fracture toughness properties. Initially, weldments have fracture toughness values about three times higher than base-metal values. Delta-ferrite phase in the weld microstructure improved toughness provided no tritium was present in the microstructure. After a tritium-exposure-and-aging treatment that resulted in {approx}1400 atomic parts per million (appm) dissolved tritium, both weldments and base metals had their fracture toughness values reduced to about the same level. The tritium effect was greater inmore » weldments (67 % reduction vs. 37% reduction) largely because the ductile discontinuous delta-ferrite interfaces were embrittled by tritium and decay helium. Fracture toughness values decreased for both base metals and weldments with increasing decay helium content in the range tested (50-200 appm).« less

Hybrid Effect Evaluation of Steel Fiber and Carbon Fiber on the Performance of the Fiber Reinforced Concrete

PubMed Central

Song, Weimin; Yin, Jian

2016-01-01

Fiber reinforcement is an important method to enhance the performance of concrete. In this study, the compressive test and impact test were conducted, and then the hybrid effect between steel fiber (SF) and carbon fiber (CF) was evaluated by employing the hybrid effect index. Compressive toughness and impact toughness of steel fiber reinforced concrete (SFRC), carbon fiber reinforced concrete (CFRC) and hybrid fiber reinforced concrete (HFRC) were explored at steel fiber volume fraction 0.5%, 1%, 1.5% and carbon fiber 0.1%, 0.2%, 0.3%. Results showed that the addition of steel fiber and carbon fiber can increase the compressive strength. SF, CF and the hybridization between them could increase the compressive toughness significantly. The impact test results showed that as the volume of fiber increased, the impact number of the first visible crack and the ultimate failure also increased. The improvement of toughness mainly lay in improving the crack resistance after the first crack. Based on the test results, the positive hybrid effect of steel fiber and carbon fiber existed in hybrid fiber reinforced concrete. The relationship between the compressive toughness and impact toughness was also explored. PMID:28773824

Hybrid Effect Evaluation of Steel Fiber and Carbon Fiber on the Performance of the Fiber Reinforced Concrete.

PubMed

Song, Weimin; Yin, Jian

2016-08-18

Fiber reinforcement is an important method to enhance the performance of concrete. In this study, the compressive test and impact test were conducted, and then the hybrid effect between steel fiber (SF) and carbon fiber (CF) was evaluated by employing the hybrid effect index. Compressive toughness and impact toughness of steel fiber reinforced concrete (SFRC), carbon fiber reinforced concrete (CFRC) and hybrid fiber reinforced concrete (HFRC) were explored at steel fiber volume fraction 0.5%, 1%, 1.5% and carbon fiber 0.1%, 0.2%, 0.3%. Results showed that the addition of steel fiber and carbon fiber can increase the compressive strength. SF, CF and the hybridization between them could increase the compressive toughness significantly. The impact test results showed that as the volume of fiber increased, the impact number of the first visible crack and the ultimate failure also increased. The improvement of toughness mainly lay in improving the crack resistance after the first crack. Based on the test results, the positive hybrid effect of steel fiber and carbon fiber existed in hybrid fiber reinforced concrete. The relationship between the compressive toughness and impact toughness was also explored.

Investigation of temperature dependence of fracture toughness in high-dose HT9 steel using small-specimen reuse technique

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Baek, Jong-Hyuk; Byun, Thak Sang; Maloy, Stuart A.

2014-01-01

The temperature dependence of fracture toughness in HT9 steel irradiated to 3–145 dpa at 380–503 degrees*C was investigated using miniature three-point bend (TPB) fracture specimens. A miniature-specimen reuse technique has been established: the tested halves of subsize Charpy impact specimens with dimensions of 27 mm *3mm* 4 mm were reused for this fracture test campaign by cutting a notch with a diamond-saw in the middle of each half, and by fatigue-precracking to generate a sharp crack tip. It was confirmed that the fracture toughness of HT9 steel in the dose range depends more strongly on the irradiation temperature than themore » irradiation dose. At an irradiation temperature <430 *degreesC, the fracture toughness of irradiated HT9 increased with the test temperature, reached an upper shelf of 180—200 MPa*m^.5 at 350–450 degrees*C, and then decreased with the test temperature. At an irradiation temperature >430 degrees*C, the fracture toughness was nearly unchanged up to about 450 *degreesC and decreased slowly with test temperatures in a higher temperature range. Such a rather monotonic test temperature dependence after high-temperature irradiation is similar to that observed for an archive material generally showing a higher degree of toughness. A brittle fracture without stable crack growth occurred in only a few specimens with relatively lower irradiation and test temperatures. In this discussion, these TPB fracture toughness data are compared with previously published data from 12.7 mm diameter disc compact tension (DCT) specimens.« less

Evaluation of the Edge Crack Torsion (ECT) Test for Mode 3 Interlaminar Fracture Toughness of Laminated Composites

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Li, Jian; Lee, Edward W.; OBrien, T. Kevin; Lee, Shaw Ming

1996-01-01

An analytical and experimental investigation was carried out on G40-800/R6376 graphite epoxy laminates to evaluate the Edge Crack Torsion (ECT) test as a candidate for a standard Mode 3 interlaminar fracture toughness test for laminated composites. The ECT test consists of a (90/(+/- 45)(sub 3)/(+/- 45)(sub 3)/90))(sub s) laminate with a delamination introduced by a non-adhesive film at the mid-plane along one edge and loaded in a special fixture to create torsion along the length of the laminate. Dye penetrate enhanced X-radiograph of failed specimens revealed that the delamination initiated at the middle of the specimen length and propagated in a self similar manner along the laminate mid-plane. A three-dimensional finite element analysis was performed that indicated that a pure Mode 3 delamination exists at the middle of specimen length away from both ends. At the ends near the loading point a small Mode 2 component exists. However, the magnitude of this Mode 2 strain energy release rate at the loading point is small compared to the magnitude of Mode 3 component in the mid-section of the specimen. Hence, the ECT test yielded the desired Mode 3 delamination. The Mode 3 fracture toughness was obtained from a compliance calibration method and was in good agreement with the finite element results. Mode 2 End-Notched Flexure (ENF) tests and Mode 1 Double Cantilever Beam (DCB) tests were also performed for the same composite material. The Mode 1 fracture toughness was much smaller than both the Mode 2 and Mode 3 fracture toughness. The Mode 2 fracture toughness was found to be 75% of the Mode 3 fracture toughness.

Application of fracture toughness scaling models to the ductile-to- brittle transition

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Link, R.E.; Joyce, J.A.

1996-01-01

An experimental investigation of fracture toughness in the ductile-brittle transition range was conducted. A large number of ASTM A533, Grade B steel, bend and tension specimens with varying crack lengths were tested throughout the transition region. Cleavage fracture toughness scaling models were utilized to correct the data for the loss of constraint in short crack specimens and tension geometries. The toughness scaling models were effective in reducing the scatter in the data, but tended to over-correct the results for the short crack bend specimens. A proposed ASTM Test Practice for Fracture Toughness in the Transition Range, which employs a mastermore » curve concept, was applied to the results. The proposed master curve over predicted the fracture toughness in the mid-transition and a modified master curve was developed that more accurately modeled the transition behavior of the material. Finally, the modified master curve and the fracture toughness scaling models were combined to predict the as-measured fracture toughness of the short crack bend and the tension specimens. It was shown that when the scaling models over correct the data for loss of constraint, they can also lead to non-conservative estimates of the increase in toughness for low constraint geometries.« less

Fracture Toughness Properties of Gd123 Superconducting Bulks

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Fujimoto, H.; Murakami, A.

Fracture toughness properties of melt growth GdBa2Cu3Ox (Gd123) large single domain superconducting bulks with Ag2O of 10 wt% and Pt of 0.5 wt%; 45 mm in diameter and 25 mm in thickness with low void density were evaluated at 77 K through flexural tests of specimens cut from the bulks, and compared to those of a conventional Gd123 with voids. The densified Gd123 bulks were prepared with a seeding and temperature gradient method; first melt processed in oxygen, then crystal growth in air; two-step regulated atmosphere heat treatment. The plane strain fracture toughness, KIC was obtained by the three point flexure test of the specimens with through precrack, referring to the single edge pre-cracked beam (SEPB) method, according to the JIS-R-1607, Testing Methods for Fracture Toughness of High Performance Ceramics. The results show that the fracture toughness of the densified Gd123 bulk with low void density was higher than that of the standard Gd123 bulk with voids, as well as the flexural strength previously reported. We also compared the fracture toughness of as-grown bulks with that of annealed bulks. The relation between the microstructure and the fracture toughness of the Gd123 bulk was clearly shown.

FaceSheet Push-off Tests to Determine Composite Sandwich Toughness at Cryogenic Temperatures

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Gates, Thomas S.; Herring, Helen M.

2001-01-01

A new novel test method, associated analysis, and experimental procedures are developed to investigate the toughness of the facesheet-to-core interface of a sandwich material at cryogenic temperatures. The test method is designed to simulate the failure mode associated with facesheet debonding from high levels of gas pressure in the sandwich core. The effects of specimen orientation are considered, and the results of toughness measurements are presented. Comparisons are made between room and liquid nitrogen (-196 C) test temperatures. It was determined that the test method is insensitive to specimen facesheet orientation and strain energy release rate increases with a decrease in the test temperature.

Quantifying voids effecting delamination in carbon/epoxy composites: static and fatigue fracture behavior

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Hakim, I.; May, D.; Abo Ras, M.; Meyendorf, N.; Donaldson, S.

2016-04-01

On the present work, samples of carbon fiber/epoxy composites with different void levels were fabricated using hand layup vacuum bagging process by varying the pressure. Thermal nondestructive methods: thermal conductivity measurement, pulse thermography, pulse phase thermography and lock-in-thermography, and mechanical testing: modes I and II interlaminar fracture toughness were conducted. Comparing the parameters resulted from the thermal nondestructive testing revealed that voids lead to reductions in thermal properties in all directions of composites. The results of mode I and mode II interlaminar fracture toughness showed that voids lead to reductions in interlaminar fracture toughness. The parameters resulted from thermal nondestructive testing were correlated to the results of mode I and mode II interlaminar fracture toughness and voids were quantified.

Tritium Effects on Fracture Toughness of Stainless Steel Weldments

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

MORGAN, MICHAEL; CHAPMAN, G. K.; TOSTEN, M. H.

2005-05-12

The effects of tritium on the fracture toughness properties of Type 304L and Type 21-6-9 stainless steel weldments were measured. Weldments were tritium-charged-and-aged and then tested in order to measure the effect of the increasing decay helium content on toughness. The results were compared to uncharged and hydrogen-charged samples. For unexposed weldments having 8-12 volume percent retained delta ferrite, fracture toughness was higher than base metal toughness. At higher levels of weld ferrite, the fracture toughness decreased to values below that of the base metal. Hydrogen-charged and tritium-charged weldments had lower toughness values than similarly charged base metals and toughnessmore » decreased further with increasing weld ferrite content. The effect of decay helium content was inconclusive because of tritium off-gassing losses during handling, storage and testing. Fracture modes were dominated by the dimpled rupture process in unexposed weldments. In hydrogen and tritium-exposed weldments, the fracture modes depended on the weld ferrite content. At high ferrite contents, hydrogen-induced transgranular fracture of the weld ferrite phase was observed.« less

A parametric study of fracture toughness of fibrous composite materials

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Poe, C. C., Jr.

1987-01-01

Impacts to fibrous composite laminates by objects with low velocities can break fibers giving crack-like damage. The damage may not extend completely through a thick laminate. The tension strength of these damage laminates is reduced much like that of cracked metals. The fracture toughness depends on fiber and matrix properties, fiber orientations, and stacking sequence. Accordingly, a parametric study was made to determine how fiber and matrix properties and fiber orientations affect fracture toughness and notch sensitivity. The values of fracture toughness were predicted from the elastic constants of the laminate and the failing strain of the fibers using a general fracture toughness parameter developed previously. For a variety of laminates, values of fracture toughness from tests of center-cracked specimens and values of residual strength from tests of thick laminates with surface cracks were compared to the predictions to give credibility to the study. In contrast to the usual behavior of metals, it is shown that both ultimate tensile strength and fracture toughness of composites can be increased without increasing notch sensitivity.

46 CFR 54.05-15 - Weldment toughness tests-procedure qualifications.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

2010-10-01

...) Plate for which Charpy V-notch impact testing is required in the parent material and for which V-notch minima are specified shall similarly have welding procedures qualified for toughness by Charpy V-notch testing. For these tests, the test plates shall be oriented with their final rolling direction parallel to...

46 CFR 54.05-3 - Tests required.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2012 CFR

2012-10-01

... 46 Shipping 2 2012-10-01 2012-10-01 false Tests required. 54.05-3 Section 54.05-3 Shipping COAST GUARD, DEPARTMENT OF HOMELAND SECURITY (CONTINUED) MARINE ENGINEERING PRESSURE VESSELS Toughness Tests § 54.05-3 Tests required. (a) Where material or welding toughness tests are required by §§ 54.25-10, 54...

Characterizing Facesheet/Core Disbonding in Honeycomb Core Sandwich Structure

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Rinker, Martin; Ratcliffe, James G.; Adams, Daniel O.; Krueger, Ronald

2013-01-01

Results are presented from an experimental investigation into facesheet core disbonding in carbon fiber reinforced plastic/Nomex honeycomb sandwich structures using a Single Cantilever Beam test. Specimens with three, six and twelve-ply facesheets were tested. Specimens with different honeycomb cores consisting of four different cell sizes were also tested, in addition to specimens with three different widths. Three different data reduction methods were employed for computing apparent fracture toughness values from the test data, namely an area method, a compliance calibration technique and a modified beam theory method. The compliance calibration and modified beam theory approaches yielded comparable apparent fracture toughness values, which were generally lower than those computed using the area method. Disbonding in the three-ply facesheet specimens took place at the facesheet/core interface and yielded the lowest apparent fracture toughness values. Disbonding in the six and twelve-ply facesheet specimens took place within the core, near to the facesheet/core interface. Specimen width was not found to have a significant effect on apparent fracture toughness. The amount of scatter in the apparent fracture toughness data was found to increase with honeycomb core cell size.

Influence of long-time stress relief treatments on the dynamic fracture toughness properties of ASME SA508 C1 2a and ASME SA533 GR B C12 pressure vessel steels

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Logsdon, W.A.

1982-03-01

Dynamic fracture toughness tests were performed on materials which had been subjected to one of three long-time post weld type stress relief heat treatments: 48 hours at 1000/degree/F (538/degree/C), 24 hours at 1125/degree/F (607/degree/C), and 48 hours at 1125/degree/F (607/degree/C). Linear elastic K/sub Id/ results were obtained at low temperatures while J-integral techniques were utilized to evaluate dynamic fracture toughness over the transition and upper shelf temperature ranges. Tensile, Charpy impact, and drop weight nil-ductility transition tests as well as room temperature, air environment fatigue crack growth rate tests (SA508 Cl 2a only) were also performed. The fracture toughness ofmore » both materials exceeded the ASME specified minimum reference toughness K/sub IR/ curve. 17 refs.« less

Mode I Fracture Toughness of Rock - Intrinsic Property or Pressure-Dependent?

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Stoeckhert, F.; Brenne, S.; Molenda, M.; Alber, M.

2016-12-01

The mode I fracture toughness of rock is usually regarded as an intrinsic material parameter independent of pressure. However, most fracture toughness laboratory tests are conducted only at ambient pressure. To investigate fracture toughness of rock under elevated pressures, sleeve fracturing laboratory experiments were conducted with various rock types and a new numerical method was developed for the evaluation of these experiments. The sleeve fracturing experiments involve rock cores with central axial boreholes that are placed in a Hoek triaxial pressure cell to apply an isostatic confining pressure. A polymere tube is pressurized inside these hollow rock cylinders until they fail by tensile fracturing. Numerical simulations incorporating fracture mechanical models are used to obtain a relation between tensile fracture propagation and injection pressure. These simulations indicate that the magnitude of the injection pressure at specimen failure is only depending on the fracture toughness of the tested material, the specimen dimensions and the magnitude of external loading. The latter two are known parameters in the experiments. Thus, the fracture toughness can be calculated from the injection pressure recorded at specimen breakdown. All specimens had a borehole diameter to outer diameter ratio of about 1:10 with outer diameters of 40 and 62 mm. The length of the specimens was about two times the diameter. Maximum external loading was 7.5 MPa corresponding to maximum injection pressures at specimen breakdown of about 100 MPa. The sample set tested in this work includes Permian and Carboniferous sandstones, Jurassic limestones, Triassic marble, Permian volcanic rocks and Devonian slate from Central Europe. The fracture toughness values determined from the sleeve fracturing experiments without confinement using the new numerical method were found to be in good agreement with those from Chevron bend testing according to the ISRM suggested methods. At elevated confining pressures, the results indicate a significant positive correlation between fracture toughness and confining pressure for most tested rock types.

Fracture Toughness of Advanced Ceramics at Room Temperature

PubMed Central

Quinn, George D.; Salem, Jonathan; Bar-on, Isa; Cho, Kyu; Foley, Michael; Fang, Ho

1992-01-01

This report presents the results obtained by the five U.S. participating laboratories in the Versailles Advanced Materials and Standards (VAMAS) round-robin for fracture toughness of advanced ceramics. Three test methods were used: indentation fracture, indentation strength, and single-edge pre-cracked beam. Two materials were tested: a gas-pressure sintered silicon nitride and a zirconia toughened alumina. Consistent results were obtained with the latter two test methods. Interpretation of fracture toughness in the zirconia alumina composite was complicated by R-curve and environmentally-assisted crack growth phenomena. PMID:28053447

Effect of Temperature on the Fracture Toughness of Hot Isostatically Pressed 304L Stainless Steel

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Cooper, A. J.; Brayshaw, W. J.; Sherry, A. H.

2018-03-01

Herein, we have performed J- Resistance multi-specimen fracture toughness testing of hot isostatically pressed (HIP'd) and forged 304L austenitic stainless steel, tested at elevated (300 °C) and cryogenic (- 140 °C) temperatures. The work highlights that although both materials fail in a pure ductile fashion, stainless steel manufactured by HIP displays a marked reduction in fracture toughness, defined using J 0.2BL, when compared to equivalently graded forged 304L, which is relatively constant across the tested temperature range.

The effect of thermocycling on the fracture toughness and hardness of core buildup materials.

PubMed

Medina Tirado, J I; Nagy, W W; Dhuru, V B; Ziebert, A J

2001-11-01

Thermocycling has been shown to cause surface degradation of many dental materials, but its effect on the fracture toughness and hardness of direct core buildup materials is unknown. This study was designed to determine the effect of thermocycling on the fracture toughness and hardness of 5 core buildup materials. Fifteen specimens were prepared from each of the following materials: Fluorocore, VariGlass VLC, Valiant PhD, Vitremer, and Chelon-Silver. American Standard for Testing Materials guidelines for single-edge notch, bar-shaped specimens were used. Ten specimens of each material were thermocycled for 2000 cycles; the other 5 specimens were not thermocycled. All specimens were subjected to 3-point bending in a universal testing machine. The load at fracture was recorded, and the fracture toughness (K(IC)) was calculated. Barcol hardness values were also determined. Data were analyzed with 1-way analysis of variance and compared with the Tukey multiple range test (P<.05). Pearson's correlation coefficient was also calculated to measure the association between fracture toughness and hardness. Fluorocore had the highest thermocycled mean K(IC) and Valiant PhD the highest non-thermocycled K(IC). Chelon-Silver demonstrated the lowest mean K(IC) both before and after thermocycling. One-way analysis of variance demonstrated significant differences between conditions, and the Tukey test showed significant differences (P<.05) between materials for both conditions. Most specimens also showed significant hardness differences between conditions. Pearson's correlation coefficient indicated only a mild-to-moderate correlation between hardness and fracture toughness. Within the limitations of this study, the thermocycling process negatively affected the fracture toughness and hardness of the core buildup materials tested.

46 CFR 54.05-17 - Weld toughness test acceptance criteria.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

2010-10-01

... 46 Shipping 2 2010-10-01 2010-10-01 false Weld toughness test acceptance criteria. 54.05-17 Section 54.05-17 Shipping COAST GUARD, DEPARTMENT OF HOMELAND SECURITY (CONTINUED) MARINE ENGINEERING... impact tests the energy absorbed in both the weld metal and heat affected zone impact tests in weld...

46 CFR 54.05-17 - Weld toughness test acceptance criteria.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2011 CFR

2011-10-01

... 46 Shipping 2 2011-10-01 2011-10-01 false Weld toughness test acceptance criteria. 54.05-17 Section 54.05-17 Shipping COAST GUARD, DEPARTMENT OF HOMELAND SECURITY (CONTINUED) MARINE ENGINEERING... impact tests the energy absorbed in both the weld metal and heat affected zone impact tests in weld...

46 CFR 54.05-17 - Weld toughness test acceptance criteria.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2012 CFR

2012-10-01

... 46 Shipping 2 2012-10-01 2012-10-01 false Weld toughness test acceptance criteria. 54.05-17 Section 54.05-17 Shipping COAST GUARD, DEPARTMENT OF HOMELAND SECURITY (CONTINUED) MARINE ENGINEERING... impact tests the energy absorbed in both the weld metal and heat affected zone impact tests in weld...

46 CFR 54.05-17 - Weld toughness test acceptance criteria.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2013 CFR

2013-10-01

... 46 Shipping 2 2013-10-01 2013-10-01 false Weld toughness test acceptance criteria. 54.05-17 Section 54.05-17 Shipping COAST GUARD, DEPARTMENT OF HOMELAND SECURITY (CONTINUED) MARINE ENGINEERING... impact tests the energy absorbed in both the weld metal and heat affected zone impact tests in weld...

46 CFR 54.05-17 - Weld toughness test acceptance criteria.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2014 CFR

2014-10-01

... 46 Shipping 2 2014-10-01 2014-10-01 false Weld toughness test acceptance criteria. 54.05-17 Section 54.05-17 Shipping COAST GUARD, DEPARTMENT OF HOMELAND SECURITY (CONTINUED) MARINE ENGINEERING... impact tests the energy absorbed in both the weld metal and heat affected zone impact tests in weld...

Crack Arrest Toughness of Two High Strength Steels (AISI 4140 and AISI 4340)

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Ripling, E. J.; Mulherin, J. H.; Crosley, P. B.

1982-04-01

The crack initiation toughness ( K c ) and crack arrest toughness ( K a ) of AISI 4140 and AISI 4340 steel were measured over a range of yield strengths from 965 to 1240 MPa, and a range of test temperatures from -53 to +74°C. Emphasis was placed on K a testing since these values are thought to represent the minimum toughness of the steel as a function of loading rate. At the same yield strengths and test temperatures, K a for the AISI 4340 was about twice as high as it was for the AISI 4140. In addition, the K a values showed a more pronounced transition temperature than the K c values, when the data were plotted as a function of test temperature. The transition appeared to be associated with a change in fracture mechanism from cleavage to dimpled rupture as the test temperature was increased. The occurrence of a “pop-in” behavior at supertransition temperatures has not been found in lower strength steels, and its evaluation in these high strength steels was possible only because they are not especially tough at their supertransition temperatures. There is an upper toughness limit at which pop-in will not occur, and this was found for the AISI 4340 steel when it was tempered to its lowest yield strength (965 MPa). All the crack arrest data were identified as plane strain values, while only about one-half of the initiation values could be classified this way.

Master curve characterization of the fracture toughness behavior in SA508 Gr.4N low alloy steels

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Lee, Ki-Hyoung; Kim, Min-Chul; Lee, Bong-Sang; Wee, Dang-Moon

2010-08-01

The fracture toughness properties of the tempered martensitic SA508 Gr.4N Ni-Mo-Cr low alloy steel for reactor pressure vessels were investigated by using the master curve concept. These results were compared to those of the bainitic SA508 Gr.3 Mn-Mo-Ni low alloy steel, which is a commercial RPV material. The fracture toughness tests were conducted by 3-point bending with pre-cracked charpy (PCVN) specimens according to the ASTM E1921-09c standard method. The temperature dependency of the fracture toughness was steeper than those predicted by the standard master curve, while the bainitic SA508 Gr.3 steel fitted well with the standard prediction. In order to properly evaluate the fracture toughness of the Gr.4N steels, the exponential coefficient of the master curve equation was changed and the modified curve was applied to the fracture toughness test results of model alloys that have various chemical compositions. It was found that the modified curve provided a better description for the overall fracture toughness behavior and adequate T0 determination for the tempered martensitic SA508 Gr.4N steels.

THE RELATIONSHIP BETWEEN MENTAL TOUGHNESS, STRESS, AND BURNOUT AMONG ADOLESCENTS: A LONGITUDINAL STUDY WITH SWISS VOCATIONAL STUDENTS (.).

PubMed

Gerber, Markus; Feldmeth, Anne Karina; Lang, Christin; Brand, Serge; Elliot, Catherine; Holsboer-Trachsler, Edith; Pühse, Uwe

2015-12-01

Past research has shown that higher stress is associated with increased burnout symptoms. The purpose of this study was to test whether mental toughness protects against symptoms of burnout and whether mental toughness moderates the relationship between perceived stress and burnout over time. Fifty-four vocational students (M age = 18.1 yr., SD = 1.2; 27 males, 27 females) completed self-report questionnaires twice, 10 mo. apart. Perceived stress, mental toughness, and burnout were measured using the Adolescent Stress Questionnaire (ASQ), the Mental Toughness Questionnaire (MTQ), and the Shirom-Melamed Burnout Measure (SMBM). Students who perceived higher stress and lower mental toughness scores reported higher burnout symptoms. Although no significant interaction effects were found between stress and mental toughness in the prediction of burnout, the graphical inspection of the interactions indicated that among students with high stress, those with high mental toughness remained below the cutoff for mild burnout, whereas an increase in burnout symptoms was observable among peers with low mental toughness.

Effect of environment on fracture toughness of 96 wt pct alumina

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Choi, Sung R.; Tikare, Veena; Salem, Jonathan A.

1993-01-01

An effort is made to deepen understanding of environmental effects on the fracture toughness of an alumina composition that contains a residual glassy phase, by ascertaining the fracture toughness under atmospheric conditions in such varied environments as air distilled water, silicone oil, and liquid nitrogen. Fracture toughness was determined via the single-edge-precracked beam technique. Weibull strength parameters are compared for polished specimens tested both in air and silicone environments.

Characterization of Mechanical Properties of Nuclear Graphite Using Subsize Specimens and Reusing Tested Specimens

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Ji Hyun, Yoon; Byun, Thak Sang; Strizak, Joe P

2011-01-01

The mechanical properties of NBG-18 nuclear grade graphite have been characterized using small specimen test techniques and statistical treatment on the test results. New fracture strength and toughness test techniques were developed to use subsize cylindrical specimens with glued heads and to reuse their broken halves. Three sets of subsize cylindrical specimens with the different diameters of 4 mm, 8 mm, and 12 mm were tested to obtain tensile fracture strength. The longer piece of the broken halves was cracked from side surfaces and tested under three-point bend loading to obtain fracture toughness. Both the strength and fracture toughness datamore » were analyzed using Weibull distribution models focusing on size effect. The mean fracture strength decreased from 22.9 MPa to 21.5 MPa as the diameter increased from 4 mm to 12 mm, and the mean strength of 15.9 mm diameter standard specimen, 20.9 MPa, was on the extended trend line. These fracture strength data indicate that in the given diameter range the size effect is not significant and much smaller than that predicted by the Weibull statistics-based model. Further, no noticeable size effect existed in the fracture toughness data, whose mean values were in a narrow range of 1.21 1.26 MPa. The Weibull moduli measured for fracture strength and fracture toughness datasets were around 10. It is therefore believed that the small or negligible size effect enables to use the subsize specimens and that the new fracture toughness test method to reuse the broken specimens to help minimize irradiation space and radioactive waste.« less

Northwest Manufacturing Initiative

DTIC Science & Technology

2013-03-26

Testing of Metallic Materials] specifications. For high temperature tests, a heated water bath was use while for low temperature testing down to...Weld metal and heat affected zones were evaluated using Charpy and E399 fracture toughness methods. The influence of temperature , loading rate, CVN...determine the influence of fracture test methods and welding procedures on toughness. Room temperature E399 tests, (CTS) were carried out under

Development of plane strain fracture toughness test for ceramics using Chevron notched specimens

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Bubsey, R. T.; Shannon, J. L., Jr.; Munz, D.

1983-01-01

Chevron-notched four-point-bend and short-bar specimens have been used to determine the fracture toughness of sintered aluminum oxide and hot-pressed silicon nitride ceramics. The fracture toughness for Si3N4 is found to be essentially independent of the specimen size and chevron notch configuration, with values ranging from 4.6 to 4.9 MNm exp -3/2. In contrast, significant specimen size and notch geometry effects have been observed for Al2O3, with the fracture toughness ranging from 3.1 to 4.7 MNm exp -3/2. These effects are attributed to a rising crack growth resistance curve for the Al2O3 tested.

Effect of Control Mode and Test Rate on the Measured Fracture Toughness of Advanced Ceramics

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Hausmann, Bronson D.; Salem, Jonathan A.

2018-01-01

The effects of control mode and test rate on the measured fracture toughness of ceramics were evaluated by using chevron-notched flexure specimens in accordance with ASTM C1421. The use of stroke control gave consistent results with about 2% (statistically insignificant) variation in measured fracture toughness for a very wide range of rates (0.005 to 0.5 mm/min). Use of strain or crack mouth opening displacement (CMOD) control gave approx. 5% (statistically significant) variation over a very wide range of rates (1 to 80 µm/m/s), with the measurements being a function of rate. However, the rate effect was eliminated by use of dry nitrogen, implying a stress corrosion effect rather than a stability effect. With the use of a nitrogen environment during strain controlled tests, fracture toughness values were within about 1% over a wide range of rates (1 to 80 micons/m/s). CMOD or strain control did allow stable crack extension well past maximum force, and thus is preferred for energy calculations. The effort is being used to confirm recommendations in ASTM Test Method C1421 on fracture toughness measurement.

Fracture toughness of bleached enamel: Effect of applying three different nanobiomaterials by nanoindentation test.

PubMed

Khoroushi, Maryam; Mazaheri, Hamid; Saneie, Tahere; Samimi, Pouran

2016-01-01

Despite the absence of dispute about the efficacy of bleaching agents, a prime concern is about their compromising effect on the enamel structure. This in vitro study investigated whether the addition of three different biomaterials, including nano-bioactive glass (n-BG)/nano-hydroxy apetite (n-HA)/nano-amorphous calcium phosphate (n-ACP), to bleaching agents can affect the fracture toughness (FT) and vickers hardness number (VHN) of bovine enamel. The crowns of the newly extracted permanent bovine incisors teeth were separated from the root and sectioned along their central line; one half serving as the control specimen and the other half as the test specimen. After mounting and polishing procedure, all the control specimens (C) were subjected to nano-indentation test to obtain the baseline values of FT. Then, the control specimens were exposed to a 38% hydrogen peroxide for four times, each time for 10 min. The test specimens were divided into three groups and treated as follows, with the same protocol used for the control specimens: Group 1; ACP + hydrogen peroxide (HP) mixed gel; Group 2 BG + HP mixed gel; and Group 3 HA + HP mixed gel. FT measurements with nano-indentation were carried out subsequent to bleaching experiments. Data were analyzed using SPSS and Kruskal-Wallis test (α = 0.05). A significant difference in young's modulus (YM), VHN, and FT at baseline and subsequent to bleaching in control group was observed. However, no significant differences were found in YM, VHN, and FT between the test groups, compared to the respective baseline values. Under the limitations of the current study, it can be concluded that the n-HA, n-ACP, and n-BG could be potential biomaterials used to reduce the adverse effects of tooth bleaching.

Fracture toughness of bleached enamel: Effect of applying three different nanobiomaterials by nanoindentation test

PubMed Central

Khoroushi, Maryam; Mazaheri, Hamid; Saneie, Tahere; Samimi, Pouran

2016-01-01

Background: Despite the absence of dispute about the efficacy of bleaching agents, a prime concern is about their compromising effect on the enamel structure. This in vitro study investigated whether the addition of three different biomaterials, including nano-bioactive glass (n-BG)/nano-hydroxy apetite (n-HA)/nano-amorphous calcium phosphate (n-ACP), to bleaching agents can affect the fracture toughness (FT) and vickers hardness number (VHN) of bovine enamel. Materials and Methods: The crowns of the newly extracted permanent bovine incisors teeth were separated from the root and sectioned along their central line; one half serving as the control specimen and the other half as the test specimen. After mounting and polishing procedure, all the control specimens (C) were subjected to nano-indentation test to obtain the baseline values of FT. Then, the control specimens were exposed to a 38% hydrogen peroxide for four times, each time for 10 min. The test specimens were divided into three groups and treated as follows, with the same protocol used for the control specimens: Group 1; ACP + hydrogen peroxide (HP) mixed gel; Group 2 BG + HP mixed gel; and Group 3 HA + HP mixed gel. FT measurements with nano-indentation were carried out subsequent to bleaching experiments. Data were analyzed using SPSS and Kruskal–Wallis test (α = 0.05). Results: A significant difference in young's modulus (YM), VHN, and FT at baseline and subsequent to bleaching in control group was observed. However, no significant differences were found in YM, VHN, and FT between the test groups, compared to the respective baseline values. Conclusion: Under the limitations of the current study, it can be concluded that the n-HA, n-ACP, and n-BG could be potential biomaterials used to reduce the adverse effects of tooth bleaching. PMID:27307669

Fracture toughness of the IEA heat of F82H ferritic/martensitic stainless steel as a function of loading mode

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Li, Huaxin; Gelles, D.S.; Hirth, J.P.

1997-04-01

Mode I and mixed-mode I/III fracture toughness tests were performed for the IEA heat of the reduced activation ferritic/martensitic stainless steel F82H at ambient temperature in order to provide comparison with previous measurements on a small heat given a different heat treatment. The results showed that heat to heat variations and heat treatment had negligible consequences on Mode I fracture toughness, but behavior during mixed-mode testing showed unexpected instabilities.

Fracture toughness of heat cured denture base acrylic resin modified with Chlorhexidine and Fluconazole as bioactive compounds.

PubMed

Al-Haddad, Alaa; Vahid Roudsari, Reza; Satterthwaite, Julian D

2014-02-01

This study investigated the impact of incorporating Chlorhexidine and Fluconazole as bioactive compounds on the fracture toughness of conventional heat cured denture base acrylic resin material (PMMA). 30 single edge-notched (SEN) samples were prepared and divided into three groups. 10% (mass) Chlorhexidine and 10% (mass) Diflucan powder (4.5% mass Fluconazole) were added to heat cured PMMA respectively to create the two study groups. A third group of conventional heat cured PMMA was prepared as the control group. Fracture toughness (3-point bending test) was carried out for each sample and critical force (Fc) and critical stress intensity factor (KIC) values measured. Data were subject to parametric statistical analysis using one-way ANOVA and Post hoc Bonferroni test (p=0.05). Fluconazole had no significant effect on the fracture toughness of the PMMA while Chlorhexidine significantly reduced the KIC and therefore affected the fracture toughness. When considering addition of a bioactive material to PMMA acrylic, Chlorhexidine will result in reduced fracture toughness of the acrylic base while Fluconazole has no effect. Copyright © 2013 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

Micro-Deval testing of aggregates in the southeast

DOT National Transportation Integrated Search

2002-10-01

Aggregates to be utilized in hot mix asphalt (HMA) must be both tough and durable. Historically, the toughness of aggregates has been determined using the Los Angeles (L.A.) Abrasion and Impact test (AASHTO T96). Some research has suggested that the ...

Lessons Learned From Developing Reactor Pressure Vessel Steel Embrittlement Database

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Wang, Jy-An John

Materials behaviors caused by neutron irradiation under fission and/or fusion environments can be little understood without practical examination. Easily accessible material information system with large material database using effective computers is necessary for design of nuclear materials and analyses or simulations of the phenomena. The developed Embrittlement Data Base (EDB) at ORNL is this comprehensive collection of data. EDB database contains power reactor pressure vessel surveillance data, the material test reactor data, foreign reactor data (through bilateral agreements authorized by NRC), and the fracture toughness data. The lessons learned from building EDB program and the associated database management activity regardingmore » Material Database Design Methodology, Architecture and the Embedded QA Protocol are described in this report. The development of IAEA International Database on Reactor Pressure Vessel Materials (IDRPVM) and the comparison of EDB database and IAEA IDRPVM database are provided in the report. The recommended database QA protocol and database infrastructure are also stated in the report.« less

Microstructure and fracture toughness of Mn-stabilized cubic titanium trialuminide

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Zbroniec, Leszek Ireneusz

This thesis project is related to the fracture toughness aspects of the mechanical behavior of the selected Mn-modified cubic Ll2 titanium trialuminicles. Fracture toughness was evaluated using two specimen types: Single-Edge-Precracked-Beam (SEPB) and Chevron-Notched-Beam (CNB). The material tested was in cast, homogenized and HIP-ed condition. In the preliminary stage of the project due to lack of the ASTM Standard for fracture toughness testing of the chevron-notched specimens in bending the analyses of the CNB configuration were done to establish the optimal chevron notch dimensions. Two types of alloys were investigated: (a) boron-free and boron doped low-Mn (9at.% Mn), as well as (b) boron-free and boron-doped high-Mn (14at.% Mn). Toughness was investigated in the temperature range from room temperature to 1000°C and was calculated from the maximum load. It has been found that toughness of coarse-grained "base" 9Mn-25Ti alloy exhibits a broad peak at the 200--500°C temperature range and then decreases with increasing temperature, reaching its room temperature value at 10000°C. However, the work of fracture (gammaWOF) and the stress intensity factor calculated from it (KIWOF) increases continuously with increasing temperature. Also the fracture mode dependence on temperature has been established. To understand the effect of environment on the fracture toughness of coarse-grained "base", boron-free 9Mn-25Ti alloy, the tests were carried out in vacuum (˜1.3 x 10-5 Pa), argon, oxygen, water and liquid nitrogen. It has been shown that fracture toughness at ambient temperature is not affected by the environments containing moisture (water vapor). It seems that at ambient temperatures these materials are completely immune to the water-vapor hydrogen embrittlement and their cause of brittleness is other than environment. To explore the influence of the grain size on fracture toughness the fracture toughness tests were also performed on the dynamically recrystallized "base", boron-free 9Mn-25Ti material with the average grain size of 45 mum. Further refinement of the grain size was obtained by ball-milling of powders in order to obtain a nanostructure material. These were subsequently consolidated by hot pressing with the objective of retaining the nanostructure to the largest extent possible. The estimated grain size of the powder compact was ˜50--200 mum. The indentation microcracking fracture toughness measurements were performed on the powder compacts. It has been found that fracture toughness is independent of the grain size in the range ˜1300--45 mum and that for the finest grains (˜50--200 mum) it drops substantially and is equal to half of that for coarse-grained material. A beneficial effect of boron doping, high-(Mn+Ti) concentration and combination of both, on the fracture toughness was observed at room and elevated temperatures. The addition of boron to a "base" 9at.% Mn-25at.% Ti trialuminicle improves the room temperature fracture toughness by 25--50%. Addition of boron to a high (Mn+Ti) trialuminide improves the room temperature fracture toughness by 100% with respect to a "base" 9Mn-25Ti alloy. Depending on the Mn+Ti concentrations and the level of boron doping, improvements of fracture toughness at 200--600°C and 800--1000°C ranges are also observed.

Critical Fracture Toughness Measurements of an Antarctic Ice Core

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Christmann, Julia; Müller, Ralf; Webber, Kyle; Isaia, Daniel; Schader, Florian; Kippstuhl, Sepp; Freitag, Johannes; Humbert, Angelika

2014-05-01

Fracture toughness is a material parameter describing the resistance of a pre-existing defect in a body to further crack extension. The fracture toughness of glacial ice as a function of density is important for modeling efforts aspire to predict calving behavior. In the presented experiments this fracture toughness is measured using an ice core from Kohnen Station, Dronning Maud Land, Antarctica. The samples were sawed in an ice lab at the Alfred Wegener Institute in Bremerhaven at -20°C and had the dimensions of standard test samples with thickness 14 mm, width 28 mm and length 126 mm. The samples originate from a depth of 94.6 m to 96 m. The grain size of the samples was also identified. The grain size was found to be rather uniform. The critical fracture toughness is determined in a four-point bending approach using single edge V-notch beam samples. The initial notch length was around 2.5 mm and was prepared using a drilling machine. The experimental setup was designed at the Institute of Materials Science at Darmstadt. In this setup the force increases linearly, until the maximum force is reached, where the specific sample fractures. This procedure was done in an ice lab with a temperature of -15°C. The equations to calculate the fracture toughness for pure bending are derived from an elastic stress analysis and are given as a standard test method to detect the fracture toughness. An X-ray computer tomography (CT scanner) was used to determine the ice core densities. The tests cover densities from 843 kg m-3 to 871 kg m-3. Thereby the influence of the fracture toughness on the density was analyzed and compared to previous investigations of this material parameter. Finally the dependence of the measured toughness on thickness, width, and position in the core cross-section was investigated.

Specimen size and geometry effects on fracture toughness of Al2O3 measured with short rod and short bar chevron-notch specimens

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Shannon, J. L., Jr.; Munz, D. G.

1983-01-01

Plane strain fracture toughness measurements were made on Al2O3 using short rod and short bar chevron notch specimens previously calibrated by the authors for their dimensionless stress intensity factor coefficients. The measured toughness varied systematically with variations in specimen size, proportions, and chevron notch angle apparently due to their influence on the amount of crack extension to maximum load (the measurement point). The toughness variations are explained in terms of a suspected rising R curve for the material tested, along with a discussion of an unavoidable imprecision in the calculation of K sub Ic for materials with rising R curves when tested with chevron notch specimens.

Adaptation of the chevron-notch beam fracture toughness method to specimens harvested from diesel particulate filters

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Wereszczak, Andrew; Jadaan, Osama; Modugno, Max

In this paper, the apparent fracture toughness of a porous cordierite ceramic was estimated using a large specimen whose geometry was inspired by the ASTM-C1421-standardized chevron-notch beam. In this paper, using the same combination of experiment and analysis used to develop the standardized chevron-notch test for small, monolithic ceramic bend bars, an apparent fracture toughness of 0.6 and 0.9 MPa√m were estimated for an unaged and aged cordierite diesel particulate filter structure, respectively. Finally, the effectiveness and simplicity of this adapted specimen geometry and test method lends itself to the evaluation of (macroscopic) apparent fracture toughness of an entire porous-ceramic,more » diesel particulate filter structure.« less

Adaptation of the chevron-notch beam fracture toughness method to specimens harvested from diesel particulate filters

DOE PAGES

Wereszczak, Andrew; Jadaan, Osama; Modugno, Max; ...

2017-01-18

In this paper, the apparent fracture toughness of a porous cordierite ceramic was estimated using a large specimen whose geometry was inspired by the ASTM-C1421-standardized chevron-notch beam. In this paper, using the same combination of experiment and analysis used to develop the standardized chevron-notch test for small, monolithic ceramic bend bars, an apparent fracture toughness of 0.6 and 0.9 MPa√m were estimated for an unaged and aged cordierite diesel particulate filter structure, respectively. Finally, the effectiveness and simplicity of this adapted specimen geometry and test method lends itself to the evaluation of (macroscopic) apparent fracture toughness of an entire porous-ceramic,more » diesel particulate filter structure.« less

46 CFR 154.605 - Toughness test.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2012 CFR

2012-10-01

... 46 Shipping 5 2012-10-01 2012-10-01 false Toughness test. 154.605 Section 154.605 Shipping COAST GUARD, DEPARTMENT OF HOMELAND SECURITY (CONTINUED) CERTAIN BULK DANGEROUS CARGOES SAFETY STANDARDS FOR SELF-PROPELLED VESSELS CARRYING BULK LIQUEFIED GASES Design, Construction and Equipment Materials § 154...

46 CFR 154.605 - Toughness test.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2013 CFR

2013-10-01

... 46 Shipping 5 2013-10-01 2013-10-01 false Toughness test. 154.605 Section 154.605 Shipping COAST GUARD, DEPARTMENT OF HOMELAND SECURITY (CONTINUED) CERTAIN BULK DANGEROUS CARGOES SAFETY STANDARDS FOR SELF-PROPELLED VESSELS CARRYING BULK LIQUEFIED GASES Design, Construction and Equipment Materials § 154...

46 CFR 154.605 - Toughness test.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2014 CFR

2014-10-01

... 46 Shipping 5 2014-10-01 2014-10-01 false Toughness test. 154.605 Section 154.605 Shipping COAST GUARD, DEPARTMENT OF HOMELAND SECURITY (CONTINUED) CERTAIN BULK DANGEROUS CARGOES SAFETY STANDARDS FOR SELF-PROPELLED VESSELS CARRYING BULK LIQUEFIED GASES Design, Construction and Equipment Materials § 154...

46 CFR 154.605 - Toughness test.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2011 CFR

2011-10-01

... 46 Shipping 5 2011-10-01 2011-10-01 false Toughness test. 154.605 Section 154.605 Shipping COAST GUARD, DEPARTMENT OF HOMELAND SECURITY (CONTINUED) CERTAIN BULK DANGEROUS CARGOES SAFETY STANDARDS FOR SELF-PROPELLED VESSELS CARRYING BULK LIQUEFIED GASES Design, Construction and Equipment Materials § 154...

The location and extent of exfoliation of clay on the fracture mechanisms in nylon 66-based ternary nanocomposites.

PubMed

Dasari, Aravind; Yu, Zhong-Zhen; Mai, Yiu-Wing; Yang, Mingshu

2008-04-01

The primary focus of this work is to elucidate the location and extent of exfoliation of clay on fracture (under both static and dynamic loading conditions) of melt-compounded nylon 66/clay/SEBS-g-MA ternary nanocomposites fabricated by different blending sequences. Distinct microstructures are obtained depending on the blending protocol employed. The state of exfoliation and dispersion of clay in nylon 66 matrix and SEBS-g-MA phase are quantified and the presence of clay in rubber is shown to have a negative effect on the toughness of the nanocomposites. The level of toughness enhancement of ternary nanocomposites depends on the blending protocol and the capability of different fillers to activate the plastic deformation mechanisms in the matrix. These mechanisms include: cavitation of SEBS-g-MA phase, stretching of voided matrix material, interfacial debonding of SEBS-g-MA particles, debonding of intercalated clay embedded inside the SEBS-g-MA phase, and delamination of intercalated clay platelets. Based on these results, new insights and approaches for the processing of better toughened polymer ternary nanocomposites are discussed.

Effect of Li level, artificial aging, and TiB2 reinforcement on the fracture toughness of Weldalite (tm) 049-type alloys

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

1991-01-01

Plane strain fracture toughness (K sub IC) was evaluated for Weldalite (tm) 049 with and without TiB2 reinforcement. For the nonreinforced variant, changes in toughness were measured for various aging conditions and lithium levels. Toughness testing was carried out on fatigue precracked compact tension (CT) specimens at 24 C, as per ASTM standard E-399. Toughness was measured as a function of aging time at 160 C for the two Weldalite 049(1.3) heats. The composition of these heats differed only in that 0.03 wt pct. Ti was added to one as an additional grain refiner. Both heats showed a decrease in toughness with increasing aging time, although toughness values for one were significantly higher than for the other. This greater toughness may be due to a subtle change in the grain size resulting for the presence of Ti or, alternatively, to differences in texture or substructure formed during extrusion.

Accurate Critical Stress Intensity Factor Griffith Crack Theory Measurements by Numerical Techniques

PubMed Central

Petersen, Richard C.

2014-01-01

Critical stress intensity factor (KIc) has been an approximation for fracture toughness using only load-cell measurements. However, artificial man-made cracks several orders of magnitude longer and wider than natural flaws have required a correction factor term (Y) that can be up to about 3 times the recorded experimental value [1-3]. In fact, over 30 years ago a National Academy of Sciences advisory board stated that empirical KIc testing was of serious concern and further requested that an accurate bulk fracture toughness method be found [4]. Now that fracture toughness can be calculated accurately by numerical integration from the load/deflection curve as resilience, work of fracture (WOF) and strain energy release (SIc) [5, 6], KIc appears to be unnecessary. However, the large body of previous KIc experimental test results found in the literature offer the opportunity for continued meta analysis with other more practical and accurate fracture toughness results using energy methods and numerical integration. Therefore, KIc is derived from the classical Griffith Crack Theory [6] to include SIc as a more accurate term for strain energy release rate (𝒢Ic), along with crack surface energy (γ), crack length (a), modulus (E), applied stress (σ), Y, crack-tip plastic zone defect region (rp) and yield strength (σys) that can all be determined from load and deflection data. Polymer matrix discontinuous quartz fiber-reinforced composites to accentuate toughness differences were prepared for flexural mechanical testing comprising of 3 mm fibers at different volume percentages from 0-54.0 vol% and at 28.2 vol% with different fiber lengths from 0.0-6.0 mm. Results provided a new correction factor and regression analyses between several numerical integration fracture toughness test methods to support KIc results. Further, bulk KIc accurate experimental values are compared with empirical test results found in literature. Also, several fracture toughness mechanisms are discussed especially for fiber-reinforced composites. PMID:25620817

Simplified data reduction methods for the ECT test for mode 3 interlaminar fracture toughness

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Li, Jian; Obrien, T. Kevin

1995-01-01

Simplified expressions for the parameter controlling the load point compliance and strain energy release rate were obtained for the Edge Crack Torsion (ECT) specimen for mode 3 interlaminar fracture toughness. Data reduction methods for mode 3 toughness based on the present analysis are proposed. The effect of the transverse shear modulus, G(sub 23), on mode 3 interlaminar fracture toughness characterization was evaluated. Parameters influenced by the transverse shear modulus were identified. Analytical results indicate that a higher value of G(sub 23) results in a low load point compliance and lower mode 3 toughness estimation. The effect of G(sub 23) on the mode 3 toughness using the ECT specimen is negligible when an appropriate initial delamination length is chosen. A conservative estimation of mode 3 toughness can be obtained by assuming G(sub 23) = G(sub 12) for any initial delamination length.

Mechanical properties and fracture toughness of rail steels and thermite welds at low temperature

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Wang, Yuan-qing; Zhou, Hui; Shi, Yong-jiu; Feng, Bao-rui

2012-05-01

Brittle fracture occurs frequently in rails and thermite welded joints, which intimidates the security and reliability of railway service. Railways in cold regions, such as Qinghai-Tibet Railway, make the problem of brittle fracture in rails even worse. A series of tests such as uniaxial tensile tests, Charpy impact tests, and three-point bending tests were carried out at low temperature to investigate the mechanical properties and fracture toughness of U71Mn and U75V rail steels and their thermite welds. Fracture micromechanisms were analyzed by scanning electron microscopy (SEM) on the fracture surfaces of the tested specimens. The ductility indices (percentage elongation after fracture and percentage reduction of area) and the toughness indices (Charpy impact energy A k and plane-strain fracture toughness K IC) of the two kinds of rail steels and the corresponding thermite welds all decrease as the temperature decreases. The thermite welds are more critical to fracture than the rail steel base metals, as indicated by a higher yield-to-ultimate ratio and a much lower Charpy impact energy. U71Mn rail steel is relatively higher in toughness than U75V, as demonstrated by larger A k and K IC values. Therefore, U71Mn rail steel and the corresponding thermite weld are recommended in railway construction and maintenance in cold regions.

Mental toughness and behavioural perseverance: A conceptual replication and extension.

PubMed

Giles, Brandon; Goods, Paul S R; Warner, Dylan R; Quain, Dale; Peeling, Peter; Ducker, Kagan J; Dawson, Brian; Gucciardi, Daniel F

2018-06-01

The purpose of this study was to conduct a conceptual replication of the proposition that mental toughness is associated positively with behavioural perseverance. Repeated-measures design. In total, 38 male Australian rules footballers took part in this study (age, 21±3 y; mass, 82.7±11.0kg; height, 1.84±.07m; football experience, 13±4 y). Participants self-reported mental toughness approximately one week prior to their first testing session where we assessed their aerobic capacity via the measurement of peak oxygen consumption (V˙O 2peak ). Approximately one week later, participants completed a 20m shuttle run test (MST). The final testing session took place approximately one week later, where participants completed a simulated team game circuit (STGC; 60min) to simulate game-relevant level of fatigue, which was followed immediately by a 20m MST. Mental toughness was a salient determinant of the variation in behavioural perseverance under typical circumstances, when prior knowledge from past research was incorporated directly into the estimation process. However, the positive association between mental toughness and behavioural perseverance did not generalise to a performance context in which participants were fatigued. The results of the current study suggest that mental toughness represents a salient psychological correlate of behavioural perseverance in a discrete physical task that taxes the aerobic energy system in some but not all situations. When fatigued, the effect of mental toughness is outweighed by greater underlying fitness. Copyright © 2017 Sports Medicine Australia. Published by Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

Indentation fracture toughness and dynamic elastic moduli for commercial feldspathic dental porcelain materials.

PubMed

Rizkalla, Amin S; Jones, Derek W

2004-02-01

The purpose of this study was to evaluate and compare the indentation fracture toughness, true hardness and dynamic elastic moduli for 14 commercial dental porcelain materials. The specimens were fired according to manufacturer instructions. The density of the specimens (n=3) was measured by means of the water displacement technique. Dynamic Young's shear and bulk moduli and Poisson's ratio (n=3) were measured using a non-destructive ultrasonic technique using 10 MHz lithium niobate crystals. The true hardness (n=3) was measured using a Knoop indenter and the fracture toughness (n=3) was determined using a Vickers indenter and a Tukon hardness tester. Statistical analysis of the data was conducted using ANOVA and a Student-Newman-Keuls (SNK) rank order multiple comparative test. The SNK rank test analysis for the mean dynamic Young's modulus and fracture toughness was able to separate 14 dental porcelain materials into seven and nine groups, respectively, at p=0.05. The elastic moduli, true hardness and indentation fracture toughness for opaque porcelains were significantly higher than incisal; and body materials at p=0.05. The indentation fracture toughness and the ultrasonic test methods exhibit lower coefficient of variation compared to conventional methods and have considerable advantage for ceramic dental materials in that only small specimens are required to produce an acceptable number of data for statistical analysis.

Loading rate and test temperature effects on fracture of In Situ niobium silicide-niobium composites

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Rigney, Joseph D.; Lewandowski, John J.

1996-10-01

Arc cast, extruded, and heat-treated in situ composites of niobium suicide (Nb5Si3) intermetallic with niobium phases (primary—Nbp and secondary—Nbs) exhibited high fracture resistance in comparison to monolithic Nb5Si3. In toughness tests conducted at 298 K and slow applied loading rates, the fracture process proceeded by the microcracking of the Nb5Si3 and plastic deformation of the Nbp and Nbs phases, producing resistance-curve behavior and toughnesses of 28 MPa√m with damage zone lengths less than 500 μm. The effects of changes in the Nbp yield strength and fracture behavior on the measured toughnesses were investigated by varying the loading rates during fracture tests at both 77 and 298 K. Quantitative fractography was utilized to completely characterize each fracture surface created at 298 K in order to determine the type of fracture mode ( i.e., dimpled, cleavage) exhibited by the Nbp. Specimens tested at either higher loading rates or lower test temperatures consistently exhibited a greater amount of cleavage fracture in the Nbp, while the Nbs, always remained ductile. However, the fracture toughness values determined from experiments spanning six orders of magnitude in loading rate at 298 and 77 K exhibited little variation, even under conditions when the majority of Nbp phases failed by cleavage at 77 K. The changes in fracture mode with increasing loading rate and/or decreasing test temperature and their effects on fracture toughness are rationalized by comparison to existing theoretical models.

Atomic and vibrational origins of mechanical toughness in bioactive cement during setting

PubMed Central

Tian, Kun V.; Yang, Bin; Yue, Yuanzheng; Bowron, Daniel T.; Mayers, Jerry; Donnan, Robert S.; Dobó-Nagy, Csaba; Nicholson, John W.; Fang, De-Cai; Greer, A. Lindsay; Chass, Gregory A.; Greaves, G. Neville

2015-01-01

Bioactive glass ionomer cements (GICs) have been in widespread use for ∼40 years in dentistry and medicine. However, these composites fall short of the toughness needed for permanent implants. Significant impediment to improvement has been the requisite use of conventional destructive mechanical testing, which is necessarily retrospective. Here we show quantitatively, through the novel use of calorimetry, terahertz (THz) spectroscopy and neutron scattering, how GIC's developing fracture toughness during setting is related to interfacial THz dynamics, changing atomic cohesion and fluctuating interfacial configurations. Contrary to convention, we find setting is non-monotonic, characterized by abrupt features not previously detected, including a glass–polymer coupling point, an early setting point, where decreasing toughness unexpectedly recovers, followed by stress-induced weakening of interfaces. Subsequently, toughness declines asymptotically to long-term fracture test values. We expect the insight afforded by these in situ non-destructive techniques will assist in raising understanding of the setting mechanisms and associated dynamics of cementitious materials. PMID:26548704

Fracture toughness testing on ferritic alloys using the electropotential technique

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Huang, F.H.; Wire, G.L.

1981-06-11

Fracture toughness measurements as done conventionally require large specimens (5 x 5 x 2.5 cm) which would be prohibitively expensive to irradiate over the fluence and temperature ranges required for first wall design. To overcome this difficulty a single specimen technique for J intergral fracture toughness measurements on miniature specimens (1.6 cm OD x 0.25 cm thick) was developed. Comparisons with specimens three times as thick show that the derived J/sub 1c/ is constant, validating the specimen for first wall applications. The electropotential technique was used to obtain continuous crack extension measurements, allowing a ductile fracture resistence curve to bemore » constructed from a single specimen. The irradiation test volume required for fracture toughness measurements using both miniature specimens and single specimen J measurements was reduced a factor of 320, making it possible to perform a systematic exploration of irradiation temperature and dose variables as required for qualification of HT-9 and 9Cr-1Mo base metal and welds for first wall application. Fracture toughness test results for HT-9 and 9Cr-1Mo from 25 to 539/sup 0/C are presented to illustrate the single specimen technique.« less

A novel pillar indentation splitting test for measuring fracture toughness of thin ceramic coatings

DOE PAGES

Sebastiani, Marco; Johanns, K. E.; Herbert, Erik G.; ...

2014-05-16

Fracture toughness is an important material property that plays a role in determining the in-service mechanical performance and adhesion of thin ceramic films. Unfortunately, measuring thin film fracture toughness is affected by influences from the substrate and the large residual stresses that can exist in the films. In this paper, we explore a promising new technique that potentially overcomes these problems based on nanoindentation testing of micro-pillars produced by focused ion beam milling of the films. By making the pillar diameter approximately equal to its length, the residual stress in the pillar’s upper portion is almost fully relaxed, and whenmore » indented with a sharp Berkovich indenter, the pillars fracture by splitting at reproducible loads that are readily quantified by a sudden displacement excursion in the load displacement behavior. Cohesive finite element simulations are used to analyze and develop, for a given material, a simple relation between the critical load at failure, pillar radius, and fracture toughness. The main novel aspect of this work is that neither crack geometries nor crack sizes need to be measured post test. Furthermore, the residual stress can be measured at the same time with toughness, by comparing the indentation results from the stress-free pillars and the as-deposited film. The method is tested on three different hard coatings formed by physical vapor deposition: titanium nitride, chromium nitride, and a CrAlN/Si 3N 4 nanocomposite. Results compare well to independently measured values of fracture toughness for the three brittle films. The technique offers several benefits over existing methods.« less

Effect of autoclave postpolymerization treatments on the fracture toughness of autopolymerizing dental acrylic resins.

PubMed

Durkan, Rukiye; Gürbüz, Ayhan; Yilmaz, Burak; Özel, M Birol; Bağış, Bora

2012-06-26

Microwave and water bath postpolymerization have been suggested as methods to improve the mechanical properties of heat and autopolymerizing acrylic resins. However, the effects of autoclave heating on the fracture properties of autopolymerizing acrylic resins have not been investigated. The aim of this study was to assess the effectiveness of various autoclave postpolymerization methods on the fracture properties of 3 different autopolymerizing acrylic resins. Forty-two specimens of 3 different autopolymerizing acrylic resins (Orthocryl, Paladent RR and Futurajet) were fabricated (40x8x4mm), and each group was further divided into 6 subgroups (n=7). Control group specimens remained as processed (Group 1). The first test group was postpolymerized in a cassette autoclave at 135°C for 6 minutes and the other groups were postpolymerized in a conventional autoclave at 130°C using different time settings (5, 10, 20 or 30 minutes). Fracture toughness was then measured with a three-point bending test. Data were analyzed by ANOVA followed by the Duncan test (α=0.05). The fracture toughness of Orthocryl and Paladent-RR acrylic resins significantly increased following conventional autoclave postpolymerization at 130°C for 10 minutes (P<.05). However, the fracture toughness of autoclave postpolymerized Futurajet was not significantly different than its control specimens (P<.05). The fracture toughness of Futurajet was significantly less than Paladent RR and Orthocryl specimens when autoclaved at 130°C for 10 minutes. Within the limitations of this study, it can be suggested that autoclave postpolymerization is an effective method for increasing the fracture toughness of tested autoploymerized acrylic resins.

Transition Fracture Toughness Characterization of Eurofer 97 Steel using Pre-Cracked Miniature Multi-notch Bend Bar Specimens

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Chen, Xiang; Sokolov, Mikhail A.; Linton, Kory D.

In this report, we present the feasibility study of using pre-cracked miniature multi-notch bend bar specimens (M4CVN) with a dimension of 45mm (length) x 3.3mm (width) x 1.65mm (thickness) to characterize the transition fracture toughness of Eurofer97 based on the ASTM E1921 Master Curve method. From literature survey results, we did not find any obvious specimen size effects on the measured fracture toughness of unirradiated Eurofer97. Nonetheless, in order to exclude the specimen size effect on the measured fracture toughness of neutron irradiated Eurofer97, comparison of results obtained from larger size specimens with those from smaller size specimens after neutronmore » irradiation is necessary, which is not practical and can be formidably expensive. However, limited literature results indicate that the transition fracture toughness of Eurofer97 obtained from different specimen sizes and geometries followed the similar irradiation embrittlement trend. We then described the newly designed experimental setup to be used for testing neutron irradiated Eurofer97 pre-cracked M4CVN bend bars in the hot cell. We recently used the same setup for testing neutron irradiated F82H pre-cracked miniature multi-notch bend bars with great success. Considering the similarity in materials, specimen types, and the nature of tests between Eurofer97 and F82H, we believe the newly designed experimental setup can be used successfully in fracture toughness testing of Eurofer97 pre-cracked M4CVN specimens.« less

A new tensile impact test for the toughness characterization of sheet material

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Könemann, Markus; Lenz, David; Brinnel, Victoria; Münstermann, Sebastian

2018-05-01

In the past, the selection of suitable steels has been carried out primarily based on the mechanical properties of different steels. One of these properties is the resistance against crack propagation. For many constructions, this value plays an important role, because it can compare the impact toughness of different steel grades easily and gives information about the loading capacity of the specific materials. For thin sheets, impact toughness properties were usually not considered. One of the reasons for this is that the Charpy-impact test is not applicable for sheets with thicknesses below 2 mm. For a long time, this was not relevant because conventional steels had a sufficient impact toughness in a wide temperature range. However, since new multiphase steel grades with improved mechanical property exploitations are available, it turned out that impact toughness properties need to be considered during the component design phase, as the activation of the cleavage fracture mechanism is observed under challenging loading conditions. Therefore, this work aims to provide a new and practical testing procedure for sheet material or thin walled structures. The new testing procedure is based on tensile tests conducted in an impact pendulum similar to the Charpy impact hammer. A new standard geometry is provided, which enables a comparison between different steels or steel grades. A connection to the conventional Charpy test is presented using a damage mechanics model, which predicts material failure with consideration of to the stress state at various temperatures. Different specimen geometries are analysed to cover manifold stress states. A special advantage of the damage mechanics model is also the possibility to predict the materials behaviour in the transition area. To verify the method a conventional steel was tested in Charpy tests as well as in the new tensile impact test.

Toughness testing and high-temperature oxidation evaluations of advanced alloys for core internals

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Tan, Lizhen; Pint, Bruce A.; Chen, Xiang

2016-09-16

Alloy X-750 was procured from Carpenter Technology and Bodycote in this year. An appropriate TMT was developed on Alloy 439 to obtain materials with refined grain size for property screening tests. Charpy V-notch impact tests were completed for the three ferritic steels Grade 92, Alloy 439, and 14YWT. Fracture toughness tests at elevated temperatures were completed for 14YWT. The tests will be completed for the other alloys in next fiscal year. Steam oxidation tests of the three ferritic steels, 316L, and Zr–2.5Nb have been completed. The steam tests of the Ni-based superalloys and the other austenitic stainless steels will bemore » continued and finished in next fiscal year. Performance ranking in terms of steam oxidation resistance and impact/fracture toughness of the alloys will be deduced.« less

Assessments of Fracture Toughness of Monolithic Ceramics-SEPB Versus SEVNB Methods

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Choi, Sung R.; Gyekenyesi, John P.

2006-01-01

Fracture toughness of a total of 13 advanced monolithic ceramics including silicon nitrides, silicon carbide, aluminas, and glass ceramic was determined at ambient temperature by using both single edge precracked beam (SEPB) and single edge v-notched beam (SEVNB) methods. Relatively good agreement in fracture toughness between the two methods was observed for advanced ceramics with flat R-curves; whereas, poor agreement in fracture toughness was seen for materials with rising R-curves. The discrepancy in fracture toughness between the two methods was due to stable crack growth with crack closure forces acting in the wake region of cracks even in SEVNB test specimens. The effect of discrepancy in fracture toughness was analyzed in terms of microstructural feature (grain size and shape), toughening exponent in R-curve, and stable crack growth determined using back-face strain gaging.

Mode I Toughness Measurements of Core/Facesheet Bonds in Honeycomb Sandwich Structures

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Nettles, Alan T.; Ratcliffe, James G.

2006-01-01

Composite sandwich structures will be used in many future applications in aerospace, marine and offshore industries due to the fact that the strength and stiffness to mass ratios surpass any other structural type. Sandwich structure also offers advantages over traditional stiffened panels such as ease of manufacturing and repair. During the last three decades, sandwich structure has been used extensively for secondary structure in aircraft (fuselage floors, rudders and radome structure). Sandwich structure is also used as primary structure in rotorcraft, the most common example being the trailing edge of rotor blades. As with other types of composite construction, sandwich structure exhibits several types of failure mode such as facesheet wrinkling, core crushing and sandwich buckling. Facesheet/core debonding has also been observed in the marine and aerospace industry. During this failure mode, peel stresses applied to an existing facesheet/core debond or an interface low in toughness, results in the facesheet being peeled from the core material, possibly leading to a significant loss in structural integrity of the sandwich panel. In an incident during a test on a liquid hydrogen fuel tank of the X-33 prototype vehicle, the outer graphite/epoxy facesheet and honeycomb core became debonded from the inner facesheet along significant areas, leading to failure of the tank. As a consequence of the accident; significant efforts were made to characterize the toughness of the facesheet/core bond. Currently, the only standardized method available for assessing the quality of the facesheet/core interface is the climbing drum peel test (ASTM D1781). During this test a sandwich beam is removed from a panel and the lip of one of the facesheets is attached to a drum, as shown in Fig. 1. The drum is then rotated along the sandwich beam, causing the facesheet to peel from the core. This method has two major drawbacks. First, it is not possible to obtain quantitative fracture data from the test and so the results can only be used in a qualitative manner. Second, only sandwich structure with thin facesheets can be tested (to facilitate wrapping of the facesheet around the climbing drum). In recognition of the need for a more quantitative facesheet/core fracture test, several workers have devised experimental techniques for characterizing the toughness of the facesheet/core interface. In all of these cases, the tests are designed to yield a mode I-dominated fracture toughness of the facesheet/core interface in a manner similar to that used to determine mode I fracture toughness of composite laminates. In the current work, a modified double cantilever beam is used to measure the mode I-dominated fracture toughness of the interface in a sandwich consisting of glass/phenolic honeycomb core reinforced with graphite epoxy facesheets. Two specimen configurations were tested as shown in Fig 2. The first configuration consisted of reinforcing the facesheets with aluminum blocks (Fig. 2a). In the second configuration unreinforced specimens were tested (Fig. 2b). Climbing drum peel tests were also conducted to compare the fracture behavior observed between this test and the modified double cantilever beam. This paper outlines the test procedures and data reduction strategies used to compute fracture toughness values from the tests. The effect of specimen reinforcement on fracture toughness of the facesheet/core interface is discussed.

A Criterion to Control Nonlinear Error in the Mixed-Mode Bending Test

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Reeder, James R.

2002-01-01

The mixed-mode bending test ha: been widely used to measure delamination toughness and was recently standardized by ASTM as Standard Test Method D6671-01. This simple test is a combination of the standard Mode I (opening) test and a Mode II (sliding) test. This test uses a unidirectional composite test specimen with an artificial delamination subjected to bending loads to characterize when a delamination will extend. When the displacements become large, the linear theory used to analyze the results of the test yields errors in the calcu1ated toughness values. The current standard places no limit on the specimen loading and therefore test data can be created using the standard that are significantly in error. A method of limiting the error that can be incurred in the calculated toughness values is needed. In this paper, nonlinear models of the MMB test are refined. One of the nonlinear models is then used to develop a simple criterion for prescribing conditions where thc nonlinear error will remain below 5%.

Tough2{_}MP: A parallel version of TOUGH2

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Zhang, Keni; Wu, Yu-Shu; Ding, Chris

2003-04-09

TOUGH2{_}MP is a massively parallel version of TOUGH2. It was developed for running on distributed-memory parallel computers to simulate large simulation problems that may not be solved by the standard, single-CPU TOUGH2 code. The new code implements an efficient massively parallel scheme, while preserving the full capacity and flexibility of the original TOUGH2 code. The new software uses the METIS software package for grid partitioning and AZTEC software package for linear-equation solving. The standard message-passing interface is adopted for communication among processors. Numerical performance of the current version code has been tested on CRAY-T3E and IBM RS/6000 SP platforms. Inmore » addition, the parallel code has been successfully applied to real field problems of multi-million-cell simulations for three-dimensional multiphase and multicomponent fluid and heat flow, as well as solute transport. In this paper, we will review the development of the TOUGH2{_}MP, and discuss the basic features, modules, and their applications.« less

2017 Accomplishments – Tritium Aging Studies on Stainless Steel Weldments and Heat-Affected Zones

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Morgan, Michael J.; Hitchcock, Dale; Krentz, Tim

In this study, the combined effects tritium and decay helium in forged and welded Types 304L and 21-6-9 stainless steels were studied. To measure these effects, fracture mechanic specimens were thermally precharged with tritium and aged for approximately 17 years to build in decay helium from tritium decay prior to testing. The results are compared to earlier measurements on the same alloys and weldments (4-5, 8-9). In support of Enhanced Surveillance, “Tritium Effects on Materials”, the fracture toughness properties of long-aged tritium-charged stainless-steel base metals and weldments were measured and compared to earlier measurements. The fracture-toughness data were measured bymore » thermally precharging as-forged and as-welded specimens with tritium gas at 34.5 MPa and 350°C and aging for approximately 17 years to build-in decay helium prior to testing. These data result from the longest aged specimens ever tested in the history of the tritium effects programs at Savannah River and the fracture toughness values measured were the lowest ever recorded for tritium-exposed stainless steel. For Type 21-6-9 stainless steel, fracture toughness values were reduced to less than 2-4% of the as-forged values to 41 lbs / in specimens that contained more than 1300 appm helium from tritium decay. The fracture toughness properties of long-aged weldments were also measured. The fracture toughness reductions were not as severe because the specimens did not retain as much tritium from the charging and aging as did the base metals. For Type 304L weldments, the specimens in this study contained approximately 600 appm helium and their fracture toughness values averaged 750 lbs / in. The results for other steels and weldments are reported and additional tests will be conducted during FY18.« less

Irradiation embrittlement characterization of the EUROFER 97 material

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Kytka, M.; Brumovsky, M.; Falcnik, M.

2011-02-01

The paper summarizes original results of irradiation embrittlement study of EUROFER 97 material that has been proposed as one candidate of structural materials for future fusion energy systems and GEN IV. Test specimens were manufactured from base metal as well as from weld metal and tested in initial unirradiated condition and also after neutron irradiation. Irradiation embrittlement was characterized by testing of toughness properties at transition temperature region - static fracture toughness and dynamic fracture toughness properties, all in sub-size three-point bend specimens (27 × 4 × 3 mm 3). Testing and evaluation was performed in accordance with ASTM and ESIS standards, fracture toughness KJC and KJd data were also evaluated with the "Master curve" approach. Moreover, J- R dependencies were determined and analyzed. The paper compares unirradiated and irradiated properties as well as changes in transition temperature shifts of these material parameters. Discussion about the correlation between static and dynamic properties is also given. Results from irradiation of EUROFER 97 show that this steel - base metal as well as weld metal - is suitable as a structural material for reactor pressure vessels of innovative nuclear systems - fusion energy systems and GEN IV. Transition temperature shifts after neutron irradiation by 2.5 dpa dose show a good agreement in the case of EUROFER 97 base material for both static and dynamic fracture toughness tests. From the results it can be concluded that there is a low sensitivity of weld metal to neutron irradiation embrittlement in comparison with EUROFER 97 base metal.

Fracture mechanics data for 2024-T861 and 2124-T851 aluminum

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Pionke, L. J.; Linback, R. K.

1974-01-01

The fracture toughness and fatigue flaw growth characteristics of 2024-T861 and 2124-T851 aluminum were evaluated under plane stress conditions. Center cracked tension specimens were employed to evaluate these properties under a number of different test conditions which included variations in specimen thickness, specimen orientation, test environment, and initial flaw size. The effect of buckling was also investigated for all tests of thin gage specimens, and the effect of frequency and stress ratio was evaluated for the cyclic tests. Fracture toughness test results were analyzed and presented in terms of fracture resistance curves; fatigue flaw growth data was analyzed using empirical rate models. The results of the study indicate that both fracture toughness and resistance to fatigue crack growth improve with increasing temperature and decreasing thickness. The presence of buckling during testing of thin gage panels was found to degrade the resistance to fatigue flaw growth only at elevated temperatures.

Effects of irradiation to 4 dpa at 390 C on the fracture toughness of vanadium alloys

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Gruber, E.E.; Galvin, T.M.; Chopra, O.K.

Fracture toughness J-R curve tests were conducted at room temperature on disk-shaped compact-tension DC(T) specimens of three vanadium alloys having a nominal composition of V-4Cr-4Ti. The alloys in the nonirradiated condition showed high fracture toughness; J{sub IC} could not be determined but is expected to be above 600 kJ/m{sup 2}. The alloys showed very poor fracture toughness after irradiation to 4 dpa at 390 C, e.g., J{sub IC} values of {approx}10 kJ/m{sup 2} or lower.

Interfacial toughness of bilayer dental ceramics based on a short-bar, chevron-notch test

PubMed Central

Anunmana, Chuchai; Anusavice, Kenneth J.; Mecholsky, John J.

2009-01-01

Objective The objective of this study was to test the null hypothesis that the interfacial toughness of each of two types of bonded core-veneer bilayer ceramics is not significantly different from the apparent fracture toughness of the control monolithic glass veneer. Methods T-shaped short bars of a lithia-disilicate glass-ceramic core (LC) and yttria-stabilized polycrystalline zirconia core ceramic (ZC) were prepared according to the manufacturer's recommendations. V-shaped notches were prepared by using 25-μm-thick palladium foil, leaving the chevron notch area exposed, and the bars were veneered with a thermally compatible glass veneer (LC/GV and ZC/GV). Additionally, we also bonded the glass veneer to itself as a control group (GV/GV). Specimens were kept in distilled water for 30 days before testing in tension. Eight glass veneer bars were prepared for the analysis of fracture toughness test using the indentation-strength technique. Results The mean interfacial toughness of the LC/GV group was 0.69 [0.11] MPa·m1/2, and did not significantly differ from that of the GV/GV control group, 0.74 (0.17) MPa·m1/2 (p > 0.05). However, the difference between the mean interfacial toughness of the ZC/GV group, 0.13 (0.07) MPa·m1/2, and the LC/GV and the GV/GV groups was statistically significant (p<0.05). Significance For bilayer all-ceramic restorations with high-strength core materials, the veneering ceramics are the weakest link in the design of the structure. Since all-ceramic restorations often fail from chipping of veneer layers or crack initiation at the interface, the protective effects of thermal mismatch stresses oral prosthesis design should be investigated. PMID:19818486

Fracture toughness versus micro-tensile bond strength testing of adhesive-dentin interfaces.

PubMed

De Munck, Jan; Luehrs, Anne-Katrin; Poitevin, André; Van Ende, Annelies; Van Meerbeek, Bart

2013-06-01

To assess interfacial fracture toughness of different adhesive approaches and compare to a standard micro-tensile bond-strength (μTBS) test. Chevron-notched beam fracture toughness (CNB) was measured following a modified ISO 24370 standard. Composite bars with dimensions of 3.0×4.0×25 mm were prepared, with the adhesive-dentin interface in the middle. At the adhesive-dentin interface, a chevron notch was prepared using a 0.15 mm thin diamond blade mounted in a water-cooled diamond saw. Each specimen was loaded until failure in a 4-point bend test setup and the fracture toughness was calculated according to the ISO specifications. Similarly, adhesive-dentin micro-specimens (1.0×1.0×8-10 mm) were stressed in tensile until failure to determine the μTBS. A positive correlation (r(2)=0.64) was observed between CNB and μTBS, which however was only nearly statistically significant, mainly due to the dissimilar outcome of Scotchbond Universal (3M ESPE). While few μTBS specimens failed at the adhesive-dentin interface, almost all CNB specimens failed interfacially at the notch tip. Weibull moduli for interfacial fracture toughness were much higher than for μTBS (3.8-11.5 versus 2.7-4.8, respectively), especially relevant with regard to early failures. Although the ranking of the adhesives on their bonding effectiveness tested using CNB and μTBS corresponded well, the outcome of CNB appeared more reliable and less variable. Fracture toughness measurement is however more laborious and requires specific equipment. The μTBS nevertheless appeared to remain a valid method to assess bonding effectiveness in a versatile way. Copyright © 2013 Academy of Dental Materials. Published by Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

Generalized Fracture Toughness and Compressive Strength of Sustainable Concrete Including Low Calcium Fly Ash.

PubMed

Golewski, Grzegorz Ludwik

2017-12-06

The paper presents the results of tests on the effect of the low calcium fly ash (LCFA) addition, in the amounts of: 0% (LCFA-00), 20% (LCFA-20) and 30% (LCFA-30) by weight of cement, on fracture processes in structural concretes. In the course of the experiments, compressive strength of concrete and fracture toughness for: I (tensile), II (in-plane shear) and III (anti-plane shear) models of cracking were measured. The tests determined the effect of age of concretes modified with LCFA on the analyzed parameters. The experiments were carried out after: 3, 7, 28, 90, 180 and 365 days of curing. Fracture toughness of concretes was determined in terms of the critical stress intensity factors: K I c S , K I I c , K I I I c and then a generalized fracture toughness K c was specified. The obtained results are significant for the analysis of concrete structures subjected to complex loading. The properties of composites with the additive of LCFA depend on the age of the concrete tested. Mature concretes exhibit high fracture toughness at 20% additive of LCFA, while the additive of LCFA in the amount of 30% weight of cement has a beneficial effect on the parameters of concrete only after half a year of curing.

Generalized Fracture Toughness and Compressive Strength of Sustainable Concrete Including Low Calcium Fly Ash

PubMed Central

2017-01-01

The paper presents the results of tests on the effect of the low calcium fly ash (LCFA) addition, in the amounts of: 0% (LCFA-00), 20% (LCFA-20) and 30% (LCFA-30) by weight of cement, on fracture processes in structural concretes. In the course of the experiments, compressive strength of concrete and fracture toughness for: I (tensile), II (in-plane shear) and III (anti-plane shear) models of cracking were measured. The tests determined the effect of age of concretes modified with LCFA on the analyzed parameters. The experiments were carried out after: 3, 7, 28, 90, 180 and 365 days of curing. Fracture toughness of concretes was determined in terms of the critical stress intensity factors: KIcS, KIIc, KIIIc and then a generalized fracture toughness Kc was specified. The obtained results are significant for the analysis of concrete structures subjected to complex loading. The properties of composites with the additive of LCFA depend on the age of the concrete tested. Mature concretes exhibit high fracture toughness at 20% additive of LCFA, while the additive of LCFA in the amount of 30% weight of cement has a beneficial effect on the parameters of concrete only after half a year of curing. PMID:29211029

Impact fracture toughness evaluation for high-density polyethylene materials

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Cherief, M. N. D.; Elmeguenni, M.; Benguediab, M.

2017-03-01

The impact fracture behavior of a high-density polyethylene (HDPE) material is investigated experimentally and theoretically. Single-edge notched bending (SENB) specimens are tested in experiments with three-point bending and in the Charpy impact tests. An energy model is proposed for evaluating the HDPE impact toughness, which provides a description of both brittle and ductile fracture.

The effect of microstructure and strength on the fracture toughness of an 18 ni, 300 grade maraging steel

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Psioda, J. A.; Low, J. R., Jr.

1974-01-01

Methods for increasing the strength of maraging steels are discussed. An investigation was conducted to systematically vary the strength of 18 weight percent nickel, 300 grade maraging steel, to isolate any attending microstructural changes, and to study the effects of these changes on the fracture toughness of the alloy. A study aimed at determining the aging behavior of the program alloy was carried out to provide data by which to estimate yield strength. The effects of various alloying materials on the strength of the maraging steel are examined. The mechanical properties of the 300 grade maraging steel were determined by tension tests, fatigue precracked Charpy impact tests, and plane strain fracture toughness tests.

Weldability of high toughness Fe-12% Ni alloys containing Ti, Al or Nb

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Devletian, J. H.; Stephens, J. R.; Witzke, W. R.

1977-01-01

Three exceptionally high-toughness Fe-12%Ni alloys designed for cryogenic service were welded using the GTA welding process. Evaluation of weldability included equivalent energy (KIed) fracture toughness tests, transverse-weld tensile tests at -196 and 25 C and weld crack sensitivity tests. The Fe-12%Ni-0.25%Ti alloy proved extremely weldable for cryogenic applications, having weld and HAZ properties comparable with those of the wrought base alloy. The Fe-12%Ni-0.5%Al had good weld properties only after the weld joint was heat treated. The Fe-12%Ni-0.25%Nb alloy was not considered weldable for cryogenic use because of its poor weld joint properties at -196 C and its susceptibility to hot cracking.

Influence of the resin on interlaminar mixed-mode fracture

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Johnson, W. S.; Mangalgiri, P. D.

1987-01-01

Both literature review data and new data on toughness behavior of seven matrix and adhesive systems in four types of tests were studied in order to assess the influence of the resin on interlaminar fracture. Mixed mode (i.e., various combinations of opening mode 1, G sub 1, and shearing mode 2; G sub 2) fracture toughness data showed that the mixed mode relationship for failure appears to be linear in terms of G sub 1 and G sub 2. The study further indicates that fracture of brittle resins is controlled by the G sub 1 component, and that fracture of many tough resins is controlled by total strain-energy release rate, G sub T. Regarding the relation of polymer structure and the mixed mode fracture: high mode 1 toughness requires resin dilatation; dilatation is low in unmodified epoxies at room temperature/dry conditions; dilatation is higher in plasticized epoxies, heated epoxies, and in modified epoxies; modification improves mode 2 toughness only slightly compared with mode 1 improvements. Analytical aspects of the cracked lap shear test specimen were explored.

Microstructure, Composition, and Impact Toughness Across the Fusion Line of High-Strength Bainitic Steel Weldments

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Lan, Liangyun; Kong, Xiangwei; Chang, Zhiyuan; Qiu, Chunlin; Zhao, Dewen

2017-09-01

This paper analyzed the evolution of microstructure, composition, and impact toughness across the fusion line of high-strength bainitic steel weldments with different heat inputs. The main purpose was to develop a convenient method to evaluate the HAZ toughness quickly. The compositions of HAZ were insensitive to higher contents of alloy elements ( e.g., Ni, Mo) in the weld metal because their diffusion distance is very short into the HAZ. The weld metal contained predominantly acicular ferrite at any a heat input, whereas the main microstructures in the HAZ changed from lath martensite/bainite to upper bainite with the increasing heat input. The evolution of HAZ toughness in relation to microstructural changes can be revealed clearly combined with the impact load curve and fracture morphology, although the results of impact tests do not show an obvious change with heat input because the position of Charpy V notch contains the weld metal, HAZ as well as a part of base metal. As a result, based on the bead-on-plate welding tests, the welding parameter affecting the HAZ toughness can be evaluated rapidly.

Interlaminar shear fracture toughness and fatigue thresholds for composite materials

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Obrien, T. Kevin; Murri, Gretchen B.; Salpekar, Satish A.

1987-01-01

Static and cyclic end notched flexure tests were conducted on a graphite epoxy, a glass epoxy, and graphite thermoplastic to determine their interlaminar shear fracture toughness and fatigue thresholds for delamination in terms of limiting values of the mode II strain energy release rate, G-II, for delamination growth. The influence of precracking and data reduction schemes are discussed. Finite element analysis indicated that the beam theory calculation for G-II with the transverse shear contribution included was reasonably accurate over the entire range of crack lengths. Cyclic loading significantly reduced the critical G-II for delamination. A threshold value of the maximum cyclic G-II below which no delamination occurred after one million cycles was identified for each material. Also, residual static toughness tests were conducted on glass epoxy specimens that had undergone one million cycles without delamination. A linear mixed-mode delamination criteria was used to characterize the static toughness of several composite materials; however, a total G threshold criterion appears to characterize the fatigue delamination durability of composite materials with a wide range of static toughness.

Influence of the resin on interlaminar mixed-mode fracture

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Johnson, W. S.; Mangalgiri, P. D.

1985-01-01

Both literature review data and new data on toughness behavior of seven matrix and adhesive systems in four types of tests were studied in order to assess the influence of the resin on interlaminar fracture. Mixed mode (i.e., various combinations of opening mode 1, G sub 1, and shearing mode 2; G sub 2) fracture toughness data showed that the mixed mode relationship for failure appears to be linear in terms of G sub 1 and G sub 2. The study further indicates that fracture of brittle resins is controlled by the G sub 1 component, and that fracture of many tough resins is controlled by total strain-energy release rate, G sub T. Regarding the relation of polymer structure and the mixed mode fracture: high mode 1 toughness requires resin dilatation; dilatation is low in unmodified epoxies at room temperature/dry conditions; dilatation is higher in plasticized epoxies, heated epoxies, and in modified epoxies; modification improves mode 2 toughness only slightly compared with mode 1 improvements. Analytical aspects of the cracked lap shear test specimen were explored.

Test-Free Fracture Toughness

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Minnetyan, Levon; Chamis, Christos C. (Technical Monitor)

2003-01-01

Computational simulation results can give the prediction of damage growth and progression and fracture toughness of composite structures. The experimental data from literature provide environmental effects on the fracture behavior of metallic or fiber composite structures. However, the traditional experimental methods to analyze the influence of the imposed conditions are expensive and time consuming. This research used the CODSTRAN code to model the temperature effects, scaling effects and the loading effects of fiber/braided composite specimens with and without fiber-optic sensors on the damage initiation and energy release rates. The load-displacement relationship and fracture toughness assessment approach is compared with the test results from literature and it is verified that the computational simulation, with the use of established material modeling and finite element modules, adequately tracks the changes of fracture toughness and subsequent fracture propagation for any fiber/braided composite structure due to the change of fiber orientations, presence of large diameter optical fibers, and any loading conditions.

Test-Free Fracture Toughness

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Minnetyan, Levon; Chamis, Christos C. (Technical Monitor)

2003-01-01

Computational simulation results can give the prediction of damage growth and progression and fracture toughness of composite structures. The experimental data from literature provide environmental effects on the fracture behavior of metallic or fiber composite structures. However, the traditional experimental methods to analyze the influence of the imposed conditions are expensive and time consuming. This research used the CODSTRAN code to model the temperature effects, scaling effects and the loading effects of fiberbraided composite specimens with and without fiber-optic sensors on the damage initiation and energy release rates. The load-displacement relationship and fracture toughness assessment approach is compared with the test results from literature and it is verified that the computational simulation, with the use of established material modeling and finite element modules, adequately tracks the changes of fracture toughness and subsequent fracture propagation for any fiberbraided composite structure due to the change of fiber orientations, presence of large diameter optical fibers, and any loading conditions.

Performance of Chevron-notch short bar specimen in determining the fracture toughness of silicon nitride and aluminum oxide

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Munz, D.; Bubsey, R. T.; Shannon, J. L., Jr.

1980-01-01

Ease of preparation and testing are advantages unique to the chevron-notch specimen used for the determination of the plane strain fracture toughness of extremely brittle materials. During testing, a crack develops at the notch tip and extends stably as the load is increased. For a given specimen and notch configuration, maximum load always occurs at the same relative crack length independent of the material. Fracture toughness is determined from the maximum load with no need for crack length measurement. Chevron notch acuity is relatively unimportant since a crack is produced during specimen loading. In this paper, the authors use their previously determined stress intensity factor relationship for the chevron-notch short bar specimen to examine the performance of that specimen in determining the plane strain fracture toughness of silicon nitride and aluminum oxide.

Effect of temperature on the fracture toughness in the nuclear reactor pressure vessel steel (SA508-3)

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Oh, S.W.; Lim, M.B.; Yoon, H.K.

1994-12-31

The elastic-plastic fracture toughness J{sub IC} of the Nuclear Reactor Pressure Vessel Steel (SA508-3) which has high toughness was obtained at three temperatures (room temperature, {minus}20 C, 200 C) using a 1/2 CT specimen. Especially the two methods recommended in ASTM and JSME were compared. It was found that difficulty exists in obtaining J{sub IC} by ASTM R-curve method, while JSME R-curve method yielded good results. The stretched zone width method gave slightly larger J{sub IC} values than those by the R-curve method for SA508-3 steel and the blunting line was not affected by the test temperatures. The relation betweenmore » SZW and J, SZW and J/E and SZW and J/{sigma}{sub ys} before initiation of a stable crack growth in the fracture toughness test at three temperatures is described.« less

Measuring Core/Facesheet Bond Toughness in Honeycomb Sandwich Structures

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Nettles, A. T.

2006-01-01

This study examines two test methods to evaluate the peel toughness of the skin to core debond of sandwich panels. The methods tested were the climbing drum (CD) peel test and the double cantilever beam (DCB) test. While the CD peel test is only intended for qualitative measurements, it is shown in this study that qualitative measurements can be performed and compare well with DCB test data. It is also shown that artificially stiffening the facesheets of a DCB specimen can cause the test to behave more like a flatwise tensile test than a peel test.

Effects of stitching on fracture toughness of uniweave textile graphite/epoxy laminates

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Sankar, Bhavani V.; Sharma, Suresh

1995-01-01

The effects of through-the-thickness stitching on impact damage resistance, impact damage tolerance, and Mode 1 and Mode 2 fracture toughness of textile graphite/epoxy laminates were studied experimentally. Graphite/epoxy laminates were fabricated from AS4 graphite uniweave textiles and 3501-6 epoxy using Resin Transfer Molding. The cloths were stitched with Kevlar(tm) and glass yarns before resin infusion. Delamination was implanted during processing to simulate impact damage. Sublaminate buckling tests were performed in a novel fixture to measure Compression After Impact (CAI) strength of stitched laminates. The results show that CAI strength can be improved up to 400% by through-the-thickness stitching. Double Cantilever Beam tests were performed to study the effect of stitching on Mode 1 fracture toughness G(sub 1c). It was found that G(sub 1c) increased 30 times for a low stitching density of 16 stitches/sq in. Mode 2 fracture toughness was measured by testing the stitched beams in End Notch Flexure tests. Unlike in the unstitiched beams, crack propagation in the stitched beams was steady. The current formulas for ENF tests were not found suitable for determining G(sub 2C) for stitched beams. Hence two new methods were developed - one based on crack area measured from ultrasonic C-scanning and the other based on equivalent crack area measured from the residual stiffness of the specimen. The G(sub 2c) was found to be at least 5-15 times higher for the stitched laminates. The mechanisms by which stitching increases the CAI strength and fracture toughness are discussed.

Controlling coaching and athlete thriving in elite adolescent netballers: The buffering effect of athletes' mental toughness.

PubMed

Gucciardi, Daniel F; Stamatis, Andreas; Ntoumanis, Nikos

2017-08-01

The purposes of this study were to examine the association between controlling coach behaviours and athlete experiences of thriving and test the buffering effect of mental toughness on this relation. A cross-sectional survey. In total, 232 female netballers aged 11 to 17 years (14.97+1.52) with between 1 and 15 years of experience in their sport (7.50+2.28) completed measures of controlling coach interpersonal style, mental toughness and thriving. Latent moderated structural models indicated that (i) controlling coach behaviours were inversely related with experiences of vitality and learning; (ii) mental toughness was positively associated with psychological experiences of both dimensions of thriving; and (iii) mental toughness moderated the effect of coach's controlling interpersonal style on learning but not vitality experiences, such that the effect was weaker for individuals who reported higher levels of mental toughness. This study extends past work and theory to show that mental toughness may enable athletes to counteract the potentially deleterious effect of controlling coach interpersonal styles. Copyright © 2017 Sports Medicine Australia. Published by Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

46 CFR 54.05-1 - Scope (replaces UG-84).

Code of Federal Regulations, 2014 CFR

2014-10-01

... 46 Shipping 2 2014-10-01 2014-10-01 false Scope (replaces UG-84). 54.05-1 Section 54.05-1 Shipping COAST GUARD, DEPARTMENT OF HOMELAND SECURITY (CONTINUED) MARINE ENGINEERING PRESSURE VESSELS Toughness Tests § 54.05-1 Scope (replaces UG-84). The toughness tests of materials used in pressure vessels shall be as required by this subpart in lieu of...

46 CFR 54.05-1 - Scope (replaces UG-84).

Code of Federal Regulations, 2012 CFR

2012-10-01

... 46 Shipping 2 2012-10-01 2012-10-01 false Scope (replaces UG-84). 54.05-1 Section 54.05-1 Shipping COAST GUARD, DEPARTMENT OF HOMELAND SECURITY (CONTINUED) MARINE ENGINEERING PRESSURE VESSELS Toughness Tests § 54.05-1 Scope (replaces UG-84). The toughness tests of materials used in pressure vessels shall be as required by this subpart in lieu of...

46 CFR 54.05-1 - Scope (replaces UG-84).

Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

2010-10-01

... 46 Shipping 2 2010-10-01 2010-10-01 false Scope (replaces UG-84). 54.05-1 Section 54.05-1 Shipping COAST GUARD, DEPARTMENT OF HOMELAND SECURITY (CONTINUED) MARINE ENGINEERING PRESSURE VESSELS Toughness Tests § 54.05-1 Scope (replaces UG-84). The toughness tests of materials used in pressure vessels shall be as required by this subpart in lieu of...

46 CFR 54.05-1 - Scope (replaces UG-84).

Code of Federal Regulations, 2011 CFR

2011-10-01

... 46 Shipping 2 2011-10-01 2011-10-01 false Scope (replaces UG-84). 54.05-1 Section 54.05-1 Shipping COAST GUARD, DEPARTMENT OF HOMELAND SECURITY (CONTINUED) MARINE ENGINEERING PRESSURE VESSELS Toughness Tests § 54.05-1 Scope (replaces UG-84). The toughness tests of materials used in pressure vessels shall be as required by this subpart in lieu of...

46 CFR 54.05-1 - Scope (replaces UG-84).

Code of Federal Regulations, 2013 CFR

2013-10-01

... 46 Shipping 2 2013-10-01 2013-10-01 false Scope (replaces UG-84). 54.05-1 Section 54.05-1 Shipping COAST GUARD, DEPARTMENT OF HOMELAND SECURITY (CONTINUED) MARINE ENGINEERING PRESSURE VESSELS Toughness Tests § 54.05-1 Scope (replaces UG-84). The toughness tests of materials used in pressure vessels shall be as required by this subpart in lieu of...

A method for evaluating the fatigue crack growth in spiral notch torsion fracture toughness test

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Wang, Jy -An John; Tan, Ting

The spiral notch torsion test (SNTT) has been a recent breakthrough in measuring fracture toughness for different materials, including metals, ceramics, concrete, and polymers composites. Due to its high geometry constraint and unique loading condition, SNTT can be used to measure the fracture toughness with smaller specimens without concern of size effects. The application of SNTT to brittle materials has been proved to be successful. The micro-cracks induced by original notches in brittle materials could ensure crack growth in SNTT samples. Therefore, no fatigue pre-cracks are needed. The application of SNTT to the ductile material to generate valid toughness datamore » will require a test sample with sufficient crack length. Fatigue pre-crack growth techniques are employed to introduce sharp crack front into the sample. Previously, only rough calculations were applied to estimate the compliance evolution in the SNTT crack growth process, while accurate quantitative descriptions have never been attempted. This generates an urgent need to understand the crack evolution during the SNTT fracture testing process of ductile materials. Here, the newly developed governing equations for SNTT crack growth estimate are discussed in the paper.« less

A method for evaluating the fatigue crack growth in spiral notch torsion fracture toughness test

DOE PAGES

Wang, Jy -An John; Tan, Ting

2018-05-21

The spiral notch torsion test (SNTT) has been a recent breakthrough in measuring fracture toughness for different materials, including metals, ceramics, concrete, and polymers composites. Due to its high geometry constraint and unique loading condition, SNTT can be used to measure the fracture toughness with smaller specimens without concern of size effects. The application of SNTT to brittle materials has been proved to be successful. The micro-cracks induced by original notches in brittle materials could ensure crack growth in SNTT samples. Therefore, no fatigue pre-cracks are needed. The application of SNTT to the ductile material to generate valid toughness datamore » will require a test sample with sufficient crack length. Fatigue pre-crack growth techniques are employed to introduce sharp crack front into the sample. Previously, only rough calculations were applied to estimate the compliance evolution in the SNTT crack growth process, while accurate quantitative descriptions have never been attempted. This generates an urgent need to understand the crack evolution during the SNTT fracture testing process of ductile materials. Here, the newly developed governing equations for SNTT crack growth estimate are discussed in the paper.« less

Monitoring crack extension in fracture toughness tests by ultrasonics

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Klima, S. J.; Fisher, D. M.; Buzzard, R. J.

1975-01-01

An ultrasonic method was used to observe the onset of crack extension and to monitor continued crack growth in fracture toughness specimens during three point bend tests. A 20 MHz transducer was used with commercially available equipment to detect average crack extension less than 0.09 mm. The material tested was a 300-grade maraging steel in the annealed condition. A crack extension resistance curve was developed to demonstrate the usefulness of the ultrasonic method for minimizing the number of tests required to generate such curves.

Mental toughness latent profiles in endurance athletes

PubMed Central

Zeiger, Robert S.

2018-01-01

Mental toughness in endurance athletes, while an important factor for success, has been scarcely studied. An online survey was used to examine eight mental toughness factors in endurance athletes. The study aim was to determine mental toughness profiles via latent profile analysis in endurance athletes and whether associations exist between the latent profiles and demographics and sports characteristics. Endurance athletes >18 years of age were recruited via social media outlets (n = 1245, 53% female). Mental toughness was measured using the Sports Mental Toughness Questionnaire (SMTQ), Psychological Performance Inventory-Alternative (PPI-A), and self-esteem was measured using the Rosenberg Self-Esteem Scale (RSE). A three-class solution emerged, designated as high mental toughness (High MT), moderate mental toughness (Moderate MT) and low mental toughness (Low MT). ANOVA tests showed significant differences between all three classes on all 8 factors derived from the SMTQ, PPI-A and the RSE. There was an increased odds of being in the High MT class compared to the Low MT class for males (OR = 1.99; 95% CI, 1.39, 2.83; P<0.001), athletes who were over 55 compared to those who were 18–34 (OR = 2.52; 95% CI, 1.37, 4.62; P<0.01), high sports satisfaction (OR = 8.17; 95% CI, 5.63, 11.87; P<0.001), and high division placement (OR = 2.18; 95% CI, 1.46,3.26; P<0.001). The data showed that mental toughness latent profiles exist in endurance athletes. High MT is associated with demographics and sports characteristics. Mental toughness screening in athletes may help direct practitioners with mental skills training. PMID:29474398

46 CFR 54.05-10 - Certification of material toughness tests.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2011 CFR

2011-10-01

..., toughness qualifications shall be determined by the Commandant based on material, chemical, and mechanical properties. [CGFR 68-82, 33 FR 18828, Dec. 18, 1968, as amended by CFR 73-254, 40 FR 40164, Sept. 2, 1975...

Crack-shape effects for indentation fracture toughness measurements

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Smith, S.M.; Scattergood, R.O.

1992-02-01

Various methods to measure fracture toughness using indentation precracks were compared using soda-lime glass as a test material. In situ measurements of crack size as a function of applied stress allow both the toughness K[sub c] and the residual-stress factor [chi] to be independently determined. Analysis of the data showed that stress intensity factors based on classical half-penny crack shapes overestimate toughness values and produce an apparent R-curve effect. This is due to a constraint on crack shape imposed by primary lateral cracks in soda-lime glass. Models based on elliptical cracks were developed to account for the crack-shape effects.

Correlation of rolling condition, microstructure, and low-temperature toughness of X70 pipeline steels

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Hwang, Byoungchul; Kim, Young Min; Lee, Sunghak; Kim, Nack J.; Yoo, Jang Yong

2005-07-01

Correlation of rolling conditions, microstructure, and low-temperature toughness of high-toughness X70 pipeline steels was investigated in this study. Twelve kinds of steel specimens were fabricated by vacuum-induction melting and hot rolling, and their microstructures were varied by rolling conditions. Charpy V-notch (CVN) impact test and drop-weight tear test (DWTT) were conducted on the rolled steel specimens in order to analyze low-temperature fracture properties. Charpy impact test results indicated that the energy transition temperature (ETT) was below -100 °C when the finish cooling temperature range was 350 °C to 500 °C, showing excellent low-temperature toughness. The ETT increased because of the formation of bainitic ferrite and martensite at low finish cooling temperatures and because of the increase in effective grain size due to the formation of coarse ferrites at high finish cooling temperatures. Most of the specimens also showed excellent DWTT properties as the percent shear area well exceeded 85 pct, irrespective of finish rolling temperatures or finish cooling temperatures, although a large amount of inverse fracture occurred at some finish cooling temperatures.

Subtask 12B1: Welding development for V-Cr-Ti alloys

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

King, J.F.; Goodwin, G.M.; Grossbeck, M.L.

1995-03-01

Development of the metallurgical and technological basis for the welding of thick sections of V-Cr-Ti alloys. The weldability and weldment properties of the V-5Cr-5Ti alloy have been evaluated. Results for the Sigmajig test of the vanadium alloy were similar to the cracking resistance of stainless steels, and indicates hot-cracking is unlikely to be a problem. Subsize Charpy test results for GTA weld metal in the as-welded condition have shown a significant reduction in toughness compared to the base metal. The weld metal toughness properties were restored to approximately that of the base metal after exposure to a PWHT 950{degrees}C. Themore » subsize Charpy toughness results for the EB weld metal from this same heat of vanadium alloy has shown significant improvement in properties compared to the GTA weld metal and the base metal. Further testing and analysis will be conducted to more fully characterize the properties of weld metal for each welding process and develop a basic understanding of the cause of the toughness decrease in the GTA welds. 5 figs., 1 tab.« less

Vacuum melting and mechanical testing of simulated lunar glasses

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Carsley, J. E.; Blacic, J. D.; Pletka, B. J.

1992-01-01

Lunar silicate glasses may possess superior mechanical properties compared to terrestrial glasses because the anhydrous lunar environment should prevent hydrolytic weakening of the strong Si-O bonds. This hypothesis was tested by melting, solidifying, and determining the fracture toughness of simulated mare and highlands composition glasses in a high vacuum chamber. The fracture toughness, K(IC), of the resulting glasses was obtained via microindentation techniques. K(IC) increased as the testing environment was changed from air to a vacuum of 10 exp -7 torr. However, this increase in toughness may not result solely from a reduction in the hydrolytic weakening effect; the vacuum-melting process produced both the formation of spinel crystallites on the surfaces of the glass samples and significant changes in the compositions which may have contributed to the improved K(IC).

Double Cantilever Beam Fracture Toughness Testing of Several Composite Materials

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Kessler, Jeff A.; Adams, Donald F.

1992-01-01

Double-cantilever beam fracture toughness tests were performed by the Composite Materials Research Group on several different unidirectional composite materials provided by NASA Langley Research Center. The composite materials consisted of Hercules IM-7 carbon fiber and various matrix resin formulations. Multiple formulations of four different families of matrix resins were tested: LaRC - ITPI, LaRC - IA, RPT46T, and RP67/RP55. Report presents the materials tested and pertinent details supplied by NASA. For each material, three replicate specimens were tested. Multiple crack extensions were performed on each replicate.

Rock Fracture Toughness Study Under Mixed Mode I/III Loading

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Aliha, M. R. M.; Bahmani, A.

2017-07-01

Fracture growth in underground rock structures occurs under complex stress states, which typically include the in- and out-of-plane sliding deformation of jointed rock masses before catastrophic failure. However, the lack of a comprehensive theoretical and experimental fracture toughness study for rocks under contributions of out-of plane deformations (i.e. mode III) is one of the shortcomings of this field. Therefore, in this research the mixed mode I/III fracture toughness of a typical rock material is investigated experimentally by means of a novel cracked disc specimen subjected to bend loading. It was shown that the specimen can provide full combinations of modes I and III and consequently a complete set of mixed mode I/III fracture toughness data were determined for the tested marble rock. By moving from pure mode I towards pure mode III, fracture load was increased; however, the corresponding fracture toughness value became smaller. The obtained experimental fracture toughness results were finally predicted using theoretical and empirical fracture models.

Dynamic fracture toughness of ASME SA508 Class 2a ASME SA533 grade A Class 2 base and heat affected zone material and applicable weld metals

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Logsdon, W.A.; Begley, J.A.; Gottshall, C.L.

1978-03-01

The ASME Boiler and Pressure Vessel Code, Section III, Article G-2000, requires that dynamic fracture toughness data be developed for materials with specified minimum yield strengths greater than 50 ksi to provide verification and utilization of the ASME specified minimum reference toughness K/sub IR/ curve. In order to qualify ASME SA508 Class 2a and ASME SA533 Grade A Class 2 pressure vessel steels (minimum yield strengths equal 65 kip/in./sup 2/ and 70 kip/in./sup 2/, respectively) per this requirement, dynamic fracture toughness tests were performed on these materials. All dynamic fracture toughness values of SA508 Class 2a base and HAZ material,more » SA533 Grade A Class 2 base and HAZ material, and applicable weld metals exceeded the ASME specified minimum reference toughness K/sub IR/ curve.« less

Fracture toughness testing of Linde 1092 reactor vessel welds in the transition range using Charpy-sized specimens

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Pavinich, W.A.; Yoon, K.K.; Hour, K.Y.

1999-10-01

The present reference toughness method for predicting the change in fracture toughness can provide over estimates of these values because of uncertainties in initial RT{sub NDT} and shift correlations. It would be preferable to directly measure fracture toughness. However, until recently, no standard method was available to characterize fracture toughness in the transition range. ASTM E08 has developed a draft standard that shows promise for providing lower bound transition range fracture toughness using the master curve approach. This method has been successfully implemented using 1T compact fracture specimens. Combustion Engineering reactor vessel surveillance programs do not have compact fracture specimens.more » Therefore, the CE Owners Group developed a program to validate the master curve method for Charpy-sized and reconstituted Charpy-sized specimens for future application on irradiated specimens. This method was validated for Linde 1092 welds using unirradiated Charpy-sized and reconstituted Charpy-sized specimens by comparison of results with those from compact fracture specimens.« less

When the going gets tough: Mental toughness and its relationship with behavioural perseverance.

PubMed

Gucciardi, Daniel F; Peeling, Peter; Ducker, Kagan J; Dawson, Brian

2016-01-01

This study examined the association between self-reported mental toughness and behavioural perseverance among a sample of male Australian footballers in a naturalistic context. Cross-sectional field study, with the multistage 20m shuttle run test (MST) employed as a proxy for behavioural perseverance. 330 male Australian footballers aged between 15 and 18 years (M=16.86; SD=.71) with between 2 and 14 years playing experience (M=9.32; SD=2.51) participated. Initially, footballers completed a mental toughness questionnaire, before having their height and body mass measurements taken. Subsequently, a performance testing session was completed, which included the 20m sprint, Australian football-specific agility run, vertical jump, and the MST. Bayesian estimation was employed to allow for the simultaneous examination of existing findings with our new data in a way that provides an automatic meta-analysis of evidence in this area. The analysis indicated a 95% probability that the association between mental toughness and behavioural perseverance lies between .14 and .34, even when controlling for other factors known to influence MST performance, including age, height, body mass, and years playing experience. Taken together with previous research, these findings support the theoretical proposition that persistence, effort or perseverance represents a behavioural signature of mental toughness. Copyright © 2014 Sports Medicine Australia. Published by Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

Mode-I Fracture Toughness Testing and Coupled Cohesive Zone Modeling at In Situ P, T, and Chemical (H2O-CO2-NaCl) Conditions

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Dewers, T. A.; Choens, R. C., II; Regueiro, R. A.; Eichhubl, P.; Bryan, C. R.; Rinehart, A. J.; Su, J. C.; Heath, J. E.

2017-12-01

Propagation of mode I cracks is fundamental to subsurface engineering endeavors, but the majority of fracture toughness measurements are performed at ambient conditions. A novel testing apparatus was used to quantify the relationship between supercritical carbon dioxide (scCO2), water vapor, and fracture toughness in analogs for reservoir rock and caprock lithologies at temperature and pressure conditions relevant to geologic carbon storage. Samples of Boise Sandstone and Marcellus Shale were subject to fracture propagation via a novel short rod fracture toughness tester composed of titanium and Hastelloy® and designed to fit inside a pressure vessel. The tester is controlled by a hydraulically-driven ram and instrumented with a LVDT to monitor displacement. We measure fracture toughness under conditions of dry supercritical CO2 (scCO2), scCO2-saturated brine, and scCO2 with varying water content ( 25%, 90%, and 100% humidity) at 13.8 MPa and 70oC. Water film development as a function of humidity is determined in situ during the experiments with a quartz crystal microbalance. Two orientations of the Marcellus are included in the testing matrix. Dry CO2 has a negligible to slightly strengthening effect compared to a control, however hydrous scCO2 can decrease the fracture toughness, and the effect increases with increasing humidity, which likely is due to capillary condensation of reactive water films at nascent crack tips and associated subcritical weakening. A 2D poromechanical finite element model with cohesive surface elements (CSEs) and a chemo-plasticity phenomenology is being used to describe the chemical weakening/softening effects observed in the testing. The reductions in fracture toughness seen in this study could be important in considerations of borehole stability, in situ stress measurements, changes in fracture gradient, and reservoir caprock integrity during CO2 injection and storage. Sandia National Laboratories is a multimission laboratory managed and operated by National Technology and Engineering Solutions of Sandia LLC, a wholly owned subsidiary of Honeywell International Inc. for the U.S. Department of Energy's National Nuclear Security Administration under contract DE-NA0003525.

Fracture toughness and the effects of stress state on fracture of nickel aluminides

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Lewandowski, John J.; Michal, Gary M.; Locci, Ivan; Rigney, Joseph D.

1991-01-01

The effects of stress state on the fracture behavior of Ni3Al, Ni3Al + B, and NiAl were determined using either notched or fatigue-precracked bend bars tested to failure at room temperature, in addition to testing specimens in tension under superposed hydrostatic pressure. Although Ni3Al is observed to fail in a macroscopically brittle intergranular manner in tension tests conducted at room temperature, the fracture toughnesses presently obtained on Ni3Al exceeded 20 MPam, and R-curve behavior was exhibited. In situ monitoring of the fracture experiments was utilized to aid in interpreting the source(s) of the high toughness in Ni3Al, while SEM fractography was utilized to determine the operative fracture modes. The superposition by hydrostatic pressure during tensile testing of NiAl specimens was observed to produce increased ductility without changing the fracture mode.

Dynamic Fracture Initiation Toughness at Elevated Temperatures With Application to the New Generation of Titanium Aluminide Alloys. Chapter 8

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Shazly, Mostafa; Prakash, Vikas; Draper, Susan; Shukla, Arun (Editor)

2006-01-01

Recently, a new generation of titanium aluminide alloy, named Gamma-Met PX, has been developed with better rolling and post-rolling characteristics. I'revious work on this alloy has shown the material to have higher strengths at room and elevated temperatures when compared with other gamma titanium aluminides. In particular, this new alloy has shown increased ductility at elevated temperatures under both quasi-static and high strain rate uniaxial compressive loading. However, its high strain rate tensile ductility at room and elevated temperatures is limited to approx. 1%. In the present chapter, results of a study to investigate the effects of loading rate and test temperature on the dynamic fracture initiation toughness in Gamma-Met PX are presented. Modified split Hopkinson pressure bar was used along with high-speed photography to determine the crack initiation time. Three-point bend dynamic fracture experiments were conducted at impact speeds of approx. 1 m/s and tests temperatures of up-to 1200 C. The results show that thc dynamic fracture initiation toughness decreases with increasing test temperatures beyond 600 C. Furthermore, thc effect of long time high temperature air exposure on the fracture toughness was investigated. The dynamic fracture initiation toughness was found to decrease with increasing exposure time. The reasons behind this drop are analyzed and discussed.

A comparative evaluation of dental luting cements by fracture toughness tests and fractography.

PubMed

Ryan, A K; Orr, J F; Mitchell, C A

2001-01-01

In recent years there has been a shift from traditional methods of investigating dental materials to a fracture mechanics approach. Fracture toughness (KIC) is an intrinsic material property which can be considered to be a measure of a material's resistance to crack propagation. Glass-ionomer cements are biocompatible and bioactive dental restorative materials, but they suffer from poor fracture toughness and are extremely susceptible to dehydration. The main objective of this study was to evaluate the fracture toughness of three types of commercially available dental cements (polyacid-modified composite resin, resin-modified and conventional glass ionomer) using a short-rod chevron-notch test and to investigate and interpret the results by means of fractography using scanning electron microscopy. Ten specimens of each cement were fabricated according to manufacturers' instructions, coated in varnish, and stored at ambient laboratory humidity, 100 per cent relative humidity, or in water at 37 degrees C for 7 days prior to preparation for testing. Results indicated that significant differences existed between each group of materials and that the fracture toughness ranged from 0.27 to 0.72 MN/m3/2. It was concluded that the resin-modified glass-ionomer cement demonstrated the highest resistance to crack propagation. Fractographs clearly showed areas of stable and unstable crack growth along the fractured surfaces for the three materials examined.

Team Faces Tough Odds to Implement New Phone Network | Poster

Cancer.gov

It was a Saturday, in the final stretch of winter in late February, and the temperature peaked to a pleasant 66 degrees. Many people were outside enjoying the spring-like weather; however, the Voice over Internet Protocol (VoIP) Deployment Team was hard at work at Industry Lane. The team of 10 was installing the new voice-only network, including deploying 145 phones, switching

Bonding measurement -Strength and fracture mechanics approaches.

PubMed

Anunmana, Chuchai; Wansom, Wiroj

2017-07-26

This study investigated the effect of cross-sectional areas on interfacial fracture toughness and bond strength of bilayered dental ceramics. Zirconia core ceramics were veneered and cut to produce specimens with three different cross-sectional areas. Additionally, monolithic specimens of glass veneer were also prepared. The specimens were tested in tension until fracture at the interface and reported as bond strength. Fracture surfaces were observed, and the apparent interfacial toughness was determined from critical crack size and failure stress. The results showed that cross-sectional area had no effect on the interfacial toughness whereas such factor had a significant effect on interfacial bond strength. The study revealed that cross-sectional area had no effect on the interfacial toughness, but had a significant effect on interfacial bond strength. The interfacial toughness may be a more reliable indicator for interfacial bond quality than interfacial bond strength.

Results of crack-arrest tests on irradiated a 508 class 3 steel

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Iskander, S.K.; Milella, P.P.; Pini, M.A.

1998-02-01

Ten crack-arrest toughness values for irradiated specimens of A 508 class 3 forging steel have been obtained. The tests were performed according to the American Society for Testing and Materials (ASTM) Standard Test Method for Determining Plane-Strain Crack-Arrest Fracture Toughness, K{sub la} of Ferritic Steels, E 1221-88. None of these values are strictly valid in all five ASTM E 1221-88 validity criteria. However, they are useful when compared to unirradiated crack-arrest specimen toughness values since they show the small (averaging approximately 10{degrees}C) shifts in the mean and lower-bound crack-arrest toughness curves. This confirms that a low copper content in ASTMmore » A 508 class 3 forging material can be expected to result in small shifts of the transition toughness curve. The shifts due to neutron irradiation of the lower bound and mean toughness curves are approximately the same as the Charpy V-notch (CVN) 41-J temperature shift. The nine crack-arrest specimens were irradiated at temperatures varying from 243 to 280{degrees}C, and to a fluence varying from 1.7 to 2.7 x 10{sup 19} neutrons/cm{sup 2} (> 1 MeV). The test results were normalized to reference values that correspond to those of CVN specimens irradiated at 284{degrees}C to a fluence of 3.2 x 10{sup 19} neutrons/cm{sup 2} (> 1 MeV) in the same capsule as the crack-arrest specimens. This adjustment resulted in a shift to lower temperatures of all the data, and in particular moved two data points that appeared to lie close to or lower than the American Society of Mechanical Engineers K{sub la} curve to positions that seemed more reasonable with respect to the remaining data. A special fixture was designed, fabricated, and successfully used in the testing. For reasons explained in the text, special blocks to receive the Oak Ridge National Laboratory clip gage were designed, and greater-than-standard crack-mouth opening displacements measured were accounted for. 24 refs., 13 figs., 12 tabs.« less

The effect of filler loading and morphology on the mechanical properties of contemporary composites.

PubMed

Kim, Kyo-Han; Ong, Joo L; Okuno, Osamu

2002-06-01

Little information exists regarding the filler morphology and loading of composites with respect to their effects on selected mechanical properties and fracture toughness. The objectives of this study were to: (1) classify commercial composites according to filler morphology, (2) evaluate the influence of filler morphology on filler loading, and (3) evaluate the effect of filler morphology and loading on the hardness, flexural strength, flexural modulus, and fracture toughness of contemporary composites. Field emission scanning electron microscopy/energy dispersive spectroscopy was used to classify 3 specimens from each of 14 commercial composites into 4 groups according to filler morphology. The specimens (each 5 x 2.5 x 15 mm) were derived from the fractured remnants after the fracture toughness test. Filler weight content was determined by the standard ash method, and the volume content was calculated using the weight percentage and density of the filler and matrix components. Microhardness was measured with a Vickers hardness tester, and flexural strength and modulus were measured with a universal testing machine. A 3-point bending test (ASTM E-399) was used to determine the fracture toughness of each composite. Data were compared with analysis of variance followed by Duncan's multiple range test, both at the P<.05 level of significance. The composites were classified into 4 categories according to filler morphology: prepolymerized, irregular-shaped, both prepolymerized and irregular-shaped, and round particles. Filler loading was influenced by filler morphology. Composites containing prepolymerized filler particles had the lowest filler content (25% to 51% of filler volume), whereas composites containing round particles had the highest filler content (59% to 60% of filler volume). The mechanical properties of the composites were related to their filler content. Composites with the highest filler by volume exhibited the highest flexural strength (120 to 129 MPa), flexural modulus (12 to 15 GPa), and hardness (101 to 117 VHN). Fracture toughness was also affected by filler volume, but maximum toughness was found at a threshold level of approximately 55% filler volume. Within the limitations of this study, the commercial composites tested could be classified by their filler morphology. This property influenced filler loading. Both filler morphology and filler loading influenced flexural strength, flexural modulus, hardness, and fracture toughness.

A simple procedure for synthesizing Charpy impact energy transition curves from limited test data

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Rosenfeld, M.J.

1996-12-31

The importance of Charpy V-notch testing of pipe has been well established in the pipeline industry. Until now, it has been necessary to perform a number of tests in order to develop the toughness transition curve. A method is described which makes possible forecasting the full-scale toughness transition from a single subsize test datum to an acceptable degree of accuracy. This is potentially useful where historical test results or material samples available for testing are limited in quantity. Worked examples illustrating the use of the relationships are given.

Accelerated weathering of tough shales : final report.

DOT National Transportation Integrated Search

1977-01-01

The purpose of this study was to find or develop a test that would identify a very tough but relatively rapid weathering type of shale that has caused problems when used in embankments as rock. Eight shales, including the problem shale, were collecte...

Design, fabrication, and characterization of laminated hydroxyapatite-polysulfone composites

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Wilson, Clifford Adams, II

There exists a need to develop devices that can be used to replace hard tissues, such as bone, in load-bearing areas of the body. An ideal hard tissue replacement device is one that stimulates growth of natural tissues, and is slowly resorbed by the body. The implant is also required to have elastic modulus, strength, and toughness values similar to the tissues being replaced. Hydroxyapatite (HA) is the primary mineral phase of bone and has the potential for use in biomedical applications because it stimulates cell growth and is resorbable. Unfortunately, HA is a relatively low strength, low toughness material, which limits its application to only low load-bearing regions of the body. In order to apply HA to greater load-bearing areas of the body, strength and toughness must be improved through the formation of a composite structure. The goal of this study to show that a composite structure formed from HA and a biocompatible polymer can be fabricated with strength and toughness values that are within the range necessary for load-bearing biomedical applications. Therefore, Polysulfone-HA composites were developed and tested. Polysulfone (PSu) is a hard, glassy polymer that has been shown to be biocompatible. Composites were fabricated through a combination of tape casting, solvent casting, and lamination. Monolithic HA and laminate specimens were tested in biaxial flexure. A unique laminate theory solution was developed to characterize stress distributions for laminates. Failure loads, failure stress, work of fracture, and apparent toughness were compared for the laminates against monolithic HA specimens. Initial testing results showed that laminates had a failure stress of 60 +/- 10, which is a 170% improvement over the 22 +/- 2 MPa failure stress for monolithic HA. The work of fracture was improved by 5500% from 11 +/- 2 for the monolithic HA to 612 +/- 240 for the laminates. Work of fracture values gave the laminates an apparent fracture toughness of 7.2 MPa•m1/2 compared to 0.6 MPa•m1/2 for the monolithic HA. Laminates with different geometries were built and tested in an attempt to optimize the strength and toughness of the composites. Laminate behavior was characterized as a function of initial flaw size, HA layer thickness, PSu layer thickness, and stressing rate. The failure stress of the laminates was maximized at a value of 108 +/- 14 MPa, which is a 400% improvement over monolithic HA, and close to the 12-160 MPa range reported for bone. The work of fracture of laminates was maximized at 724 +/- 206 J/m2, which is a 6400% improvement over monolithic HA, and yields an apparent fracture toughness value of 7.5 MPa•m1/2. This apparent toughness value is within the 2-12 MPa•m1/2 range for bone, and an 1100% improvement over the fracture toughness of monolithic HA.

Processing and testing of high toughness silicon nitride ceramics

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Tikare, Veena; Sanders, William A.; Choi, Sung R.

1993-01-01

High toughness silicon nitride ceramics were processed with the addition of small quantities of beta-Si3N4 whiskers in a commercially available alpha-Si3N4 powder. These whiskers grew preferentially during sintering resulting in large, elongated beta-grains, which acted to toughen the matrix by crack deflection and grain pullout. The fracture toughness of these samples seeded with beta-Si3N4 whiskers ranged from 8.7 to 9.5 MPa m(exp 0.5) depending on the sintering additives.

Fracture toughness of copper-base alloys for ITER applications: A preliminary report

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Alexander, D.J.; Zinkle, S.J.; Rowcliffe, A.F.

1997-04-01

Oxide-dispersion strengthened copper alloys and a precipitation-hardened copper-nickel-beryllium alloy showed a significant reduction in toughness at elevated temperature (250{degrees}C). This decrease in toughness was much larger than would be expected from the relatively modest changes in the tensile properties over the same temperature range. However, a copper-chromium-zirconium alloy strengthened by precipitation showed only a small decrease in toughness at the higher temperatures. The embrittled alloys showed a transition in fracture mode, from transgranular microvoid coalescence at room temperature to intergranular with localized ductility at high temperatures. The Cu-Cr-Zr alloy maintained the ductile microvoid coalescence failure mode at all test temperatures.

Measurement of fracture toughness by nanoindentation methods: Recent advances and future challenges

DOE PAGES

Sebastiani, Marco; Johanns, K. E.; Herbert, Erik G.; ...

2015-04-30

In this study, we describe recent advances and developments for the measurement of fracture toughness at small scales by the use of nanoindentation-based methods including techniques based on micro-cantilever beam bending and micro-pillar splitting. A critical comparison of the techniques is made by testing a selected group of bulk and thin film materials. For pillar splitting, cohesive zone finite element simulations are used to validate a simple relationship between the critical load at failure, the pillar radius, and the fracture toughness for a range of material properties and coating/substrate combinations. The minimum pillar diameter required for nucleation and growth ofmore » a crack during indentation is also estimated. An analysis of pillar splitting for a film on a dissimilar substrate material shows that the critical load for splitting is relatively insensitive to the substrate compliance for a large range of material properties. Experimental results from a selected group of materials show good agreement between single cantilever and pillar splitting methods, while a discrepancy of ~25% is found between the pillar splitting technique and double-cantilever testing. It is concluded that both the micro-cantilever and pillar splitting techniques are valuable methods for micro-scale assessment of fracture toughness of brittle ceramics, provided the underlying assumptions can be validated. Although the pillar splitting method has some advantages because of the simplicity of sample preparation and testing, it is not applicable to most metals because their higher toughness prevents splitting, and in this case, micro-cantilever bend testing is preferred.« less

Weldability of high-toughness iron - 12 percent-nickel alloys with reactive metal additions of titanium, aluminum, or niobium

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Delvetian, J. H.; Stephens, J. R.; Witzke, W. R.

1977-01-01

Three exceptionally high toughness Fe-12Ni alloys designed for cryogenic service were welded by using the gas tungsten arc welding process. Evaluation of their weldability included equivalent energy fracture toughness tests, transverse weld tensile tests at -196 and 25 C, and weld crack sensitivity tests. The Fe-12Ni-0.25Ti alloy proved extremely weldable for cryogenic applications, having weld and heat affected zone properties comparable to those of the wrought base alloy. The Fe-12Ni-0.5Al alloy had good weld properties only after the weld joint was heat treated. The Fe-12Ni-0.25Nb alloy was not considered weldable for cryogenic use because of its poor weld joint properties at -196 C and its susceptibility to hot cracking.

Statistical Analyses for Probabilistic Assessments of the Reactor Pressure Vessel Structural Integrity: Building a Master Curve on an Extract of the 'Euro' Fracture Toughness Dataset, Controlling Statistical Uncertainty for Both Mono-Temperature and multi-temperature tests

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Josse, Florent; Lefebvre, Yannick; Todeschini, Patrick

2006-07-01

Assessing the structural integrity of a nuclear Reactor Pressure Vessel (RPV) subjected to pressurized-thermal-shock (PTS) transients is extremely important to safety. In addition to conventional deterministic calculations to confirm RPV integrity, Electricite de France (EDF) carries out probabilistic analyses. Probabilistic analyses are interesting because some key variables, albeit conventionally taken at conservative values, can be modeled more accurately through statistical variability. One variable which significantly affects RPV structural integrity assessment is cleavage fracture initiation toughness. The reference fracture toughness method currently in use at EDF is the RCCM and ASME Code lower-bound K{sub IC} based on the indexing parameter RT{submore » NDT}. However, in order to quantify the toughness scatter for probabilistic analyses, the master curve method is being analyzed at present. Furthermore, the master curve method is a direct means of evaluating fracture toughness based on K{sub JC} data. In the framework of the master curve investigation undertaken by EDF, this article deals with the following two statistical items: building a master curve from an extract of a fracture toughness dataset (from the European project 'Unified Reference Fracture Toughness Design curves for RPV Steels') and controlling statistical uncertainty for both mono-temperature and multi-temperature tests. Concerning the first point, master curve temperature dependence is empirical in nature. To determine the 'original' master curve, Wallin postulated that a unified description of fracture toughness temperature dependence for ferritic steels is possible, and used a large number of data corresponding to nuclear-grade pressure vessel steels and welds. Our working hypothesis is that some ferritic steels may behave in slightly different ways. Therefore we focused exclusively on the basic french reactor vessel metal of types A508 Class 3 and A 533 grade B Class 1, taking the sampling level and direction into account as well as the test specimen type. As for the second point, the emphasis is placed on the uncertainties in applying the master curve approach. For a toughness dataset based on different specimens of a single product, application of the master curve methodology requires the statistical estimation of one parameter: the reference temperature T{sub 0}. Because of the limited number of specimens, estimation of this temperature is uncertain. The ASTM standard provides a rough evaluation of this statistical uncertainty through an approximate confidence interval. In this paper, a thorough study is carried out to build more meaningful confidence intervals (for both mono-temperature and multi-temperature tests). These results ensure better control over uncertainty, and allow rigorous analysis of the impact of its influencing factors: the number of specimens and the temperatures at which they have been tested. (authors)« less

Fracture toughness and fracture behavior of CLAM steel in the temperature range of 450 °C-550 °C

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Zhao, Yanyun; Liang, Mengtian; Zhang, Zhenyu; Jiang, Man; Liu, Shaojun

2018-04-01

In order to analyze the fracture toughness and fracture behavior (J-R curves) of China Low Activation Martensitic (CLAM) steel under the design service temperature of Test Blanket Module of the International Thermonuclear Experimental Reactor, the quasi-static fracture experiment of CLAM steel was carried out under the temperature range of 450 °C-550 °C. The results indicated that the fracture behavior of CLAM steel was greatly influenced by test temperature. The fracture toughness increased slightly as the temperature increased from 450 °C to 500 °C. In the meanwhile, the fracture toughness at 550 °C could not be obtained due to the plastic deformation near the crack tip zone. The microstructure analysis based on the fracture topography and the interaction between dislocations and lath boundaries showed two different sub-crack propagation modes: growth along 45° of the main crack direction at 450 °C and growth perpendicular to the main crack at 500 °C.

Improvement of the fracture toughness of hydroxyapatite (HAp) by incorporation of carboxyl functionalized single walled carbon nanotubes (CfSWCNTs) and nylon

DOE PAGES

Khanal, Suraj P.; Mahfuz, Hassan; Rondinone, Adam Justin; ...

2015-11-12

The potential of improving the fracture toughness of synthetic hydroxyapatite (HAp) by incorporating carboxyl functionalized single walled carbon nanotubes (CfSWCNTs) and polymerized ε-caprolactam (nylon) was researched. A series of HAp samples with CfSWCNTs concentrations varying from 0 to 1.5 wt.%, without, and with nylon addition was prepared. X-ray diffraction (XRD), Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM), and Transmission Electron Microscopy (TEM) were used to characterize the samples. The three point bending test was applied to measure the fracture toughness of the composites. A reproducible value of 3.6 ± 0.3 MPa.√m was found for samples containing 1 wt.% CfSWCNTs and nylon. This valuemore » is in the range of the cortical bone fracture toughness. Lastly, the increase of the CfSWCNTs content results to decrease of the fracture toughness, and formation of secondary phases.« less

Acoustic Emission Methodology to Evaluate the Fracture Toughness in Heat Treated AISI D2 Tool Steel

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Mostafavi, Sajad; Fotouhi, Mohamad; Motasemi, Abed; Ahmadi, Mehdi; Sindi, Cevat Teymuri

2012-10-01

In this article, fracture toughness behavior of tool steel was investigated using Acoustic Emission (AE) monitoring. Fracture toughness ( K IC) values of a specific tool steel was determined by applying various approaches based on conventional AE parameters, such as Acoustic Emission Cumulative Count (AECC), Acoustic Emission Energy Rate (AEER), and the combination of mechanical characteristics and AE information called sentry function. The critical fracture toughness values during crack propagation were achieved by means of relationship between the integral of the sentry function and cumulative fracture toughness (KICUM). Specimens were selected from AISI D2 cold-work tool steel and were heat treated at four different tempering conditions (300, 450, 525, and 575 °C). The results achieved through AE approaches were then compared with a methodology proposed by compact specimen testing according to ASTM standard E399. It was concluded that AE information was an efficient method to investigate fracture characteristics.

Autohesive strength development in polysulfone resin and graphite-polysulfone composites

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Howes, Jeremy C.; Loos, Alfred C.

1988-01-01

The effects of bonding temperature and contact time on autohesive strength development in thermoplastic polysulfone resin and graphite-polysulfone composites were investigated. Two test methods were examined to measure autohesion in the neat resin samples. These included an interfacial tension test and a compact tension fracture toughness test. Autohesive strength development in fiber-reinforced composites was measured using a double cantilever beam interlaminar fracture toughness test. The results of the tests were compared with current diffusion theories explaining crack healing and welding of glassy polymers. Discrepancies between the results of the present investigation and the diffusion theories are discussed.

Evaluation of Orientation Dependence of Fracture Toughness and Fatigue Crack Propagation Behavior of As-Deposited ARCAM EBM Ti-6Al-4V

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Seifi, Mohsen; Dahar, Matthew; Aman, Ron; Harrysson, Ola; Beuth, Jack; Lewandowski, John J.

2015-03-01

This preliminary work documents the effects of test orientation with respect to build and beam raster directions on the fracture toughness and fatigue crack growth behavior of as-deposited EBM Ti-6Al-4V. Although ASTM/ISO standards exist for determining the orientation dependence of various mechanical properties in both cast and wrought materials, these standards are evolving for materials produced via additive manufacturing (AM) techniques. The current work was conducted as part of a larger America Makes funded project to begin to examine the effects of process variables on the microstructure and fracture and fatigue behavior of AM Ti-6Al-4V. In the fatigue crack growth tests, the fatigue threshold, Paris law slope, and overload toughness were determined at different load ratios, R, whereas fatigue precracked samples were tested to determine the fracture toughness. The as-deposited material exhibited a fine-scale basket-weave microstructure throughout the build, and although fracture surface examination revealed the presence of unmelted powders, disbonded regions, and isolated porosity, the resulting mechanical properties were in the range of those reported for cast and wrought Ti-6Al-4V. Remote access and control of testing was also developed at Case Western Reserve University to improve efficiency of fatigue crack growth testing.

The weak interfaces within tough natural composites: experiments on three types of nacre.

PubMed

Khayer Dastjerdi, Ahmad; Rabiei, Reza; Barthelat, Francois

2013-03-01

Mineralization is a typical strategy used in natural materials to achieve high stiffness and hardness for structural functions such as skeletal support, protection or predation. High mineral content generally leads to brittleness, yet natural materials such as bone, mollusk shells or glass sponge achieve relatively high toughness considering the weakness of their constituents through intricate microstructures. In particular, nanometers thick organic interfaces organized in micro-architectures play a key role in providing toughness by various processes including crack deflection, crack bridging or energy dissipation. While these interfaces are critical in these materials, their composition, structure and mechanics is often poorly understood. In this work we focus on nacre, one of the most impressive hard biological materials in terms of toughness. We performed interfacial fracture tests on chevron notched nacre samples from three different species: red abalone, top shell and pearl oyster. We found that the intrinsic toughness of the interfaces is indeed found to be extremely low, in the order of the toughness of the mineral inclusions themselves. Such low toughness is required for the cracks to follow the interfaces, and to deflect and circumvent the mineral tablets. This result highlights the efficacy of toughening mechanisms in natural materials, turning low-toughness inclusions and interfaces into high-performance composites. We found that top shell nacre displayed the highest interfacial toughness, because of higher surface roughness and a more resilient organic material, and also through extrinsic toughening mechanisms including crack deflection, crack bridging and process zone. In the context of biomimetics, the main implication of this finding is that the interface in nacre-like composite does not need to be tough; the extensibility or ductility of the interfaces may be more important than their strength and toughness to produce toughness at the macroscale. Copyright © 2012 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

Fracture behavior of hybrid composite laminates

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Kennedy, J. M.

1983-01-01

The tensile fracture behavior of 15 center-notched hybrid laminates was studied. Three basic laminate groups were tested: (1) a baseline group with graphite/epoxy plies, (2) a group with the same stacking sequence but where the zero-deg plies were one or two plies of S-glass or Kevlar, and (3) a group with graphite plies but where the zero-deg plies were sandwiched between layers of perforated Mylar. Specimens were loaded linearly with time; load, far field strain, and crack opening displacement (COD) were monitored. The loading was stopped periodically and the notched region was radiographed to reveal the extent and type of damage (failure progression). Results of the tests showed that the hybrid laminates had higher fracture toughnesses than comparable all-graphite laminates. The higher fracture toughness was due primarily to the larger damage region at the ends of the slit; delamination and splitting lowered the stress concentration in the primary load-carrying plies. A linear elastic fracture analysis, which ignored delamination and splitting, underestimated the fracture toughness. For almost all of the laminates, the tests showed that the fracture toughness increased with crack length. The size of the damage region at the ends of the slit and COD measurements also increased with crack length.

Comparison of Intralaminar and Interlaminar Mode-I Fracture Toughness of Unidirectional IM7/8552 Graphite/Epoxy Composite

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Czabaj, Michael W.; Ratcliffe, James

2012-01-01

The intralaminar and interlaminar mode-I fracture-toughness of a unidirectional IM7/8552 graphite/epoxy composite were measured using compact tension (CT) and double cantilever beam (DCB) test specimens, respectively. Two starter crack geometries were considered for both the CT and DCB specimen configurations. In the first case, starter cracks were produced by 12.5 micron thick, Teflon film inserts. In the second case, considerably sharper starter cracks were produced by fatigue precracking. For each specimen configuration, use of the Teflon film starter cracks resulted in initially unstable crack growth and artificially high initiation fracture-toughness values. Conversely, specimens with fatigue precracks exhibited stable growth onset and lower initiation fracture toughness. For CT and DCB specimens with fatigue precracks, the intralaminar and interlaminar initiation fracture toughnesses were approximately equal. However, during propagation, the CT specimens exhibited more extensive fiber bridging, and rapidly increasing R-curve behavior as compared to the DCB specimens. Observations of initiation and propagation of intralaminar and interlaminar fracture, and the measurements of fracture toughness, were supported by fractographic analysis using scanning electron microscopy.

Fracture toughness of ultrashort pulse-bonded fused silica

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Richter, S.; Naumann, F.; Zimmermann, F.; Tünnermann, A.; Nolte, S.

2016-02-01

We determined the bond interface strength of ultrashort pulse laser-welded fused silica for different processing parameters. To this end, we used a high repetition rate ultrashort pulse laser system to inscribe parallel welding lines with a specific V-shaped design into optically contacted fused silica samples. Afterward, we applied a micro-chevron test to measure the fracture toughness and surface energy of the laser-inscribed welding seams. We analyzed the influence of different processing parameters such as laser repetition rate and line separation on the fracture toughness and fracture surface energy. Welding the entire surface a fracture toughness of 0.71 {MPa} {m}^{1/2}, about 90 % of the pristine bulk material ({≈ } 0.8 {MPa} {m}^{1/2}), is obtained.

Fracture toughness testing data. A bibliography

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Carpenter, J. L., Jr.; Moya, N.; Stuhrke, W. F.

1975-01-01

This bibliography is comprised of approximately 800 reference citations related to the mechanics of failure in aerospace structures. Most of the references are for documents that include fracture toughness testing data and its application or documents on the availability and usefulness of fracture mechanics analysis methodology. The bibliography represents a search of the literature published in the period April 1962 through April 1974 and is largely limited to documents published in the United States.

A portable fracture toughness tester for biological materials

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Darvell, B. W.; Lee, P. K. D.; Yuen, T. D. B.; Lucas, P. W.

1996-06-01

A portable mechanical tester is described which is both lightweight and cheap to produce. The machine is simple and convenient to operate and requires only a minimum of personnel training. It can be used to measure the fundamental mechanical properties of pliant solids, particularly toughness (in the sense of `work of fracture') using either scissors or wedge tests. This is achieved through a novel hardware integration technique. The circuits are described. The use of the machine does not require a chart recorder but it can be linked to a personal computer, either to show force - displacement relationships or for data storage. The design allows the use of any relatively `soft' mechanical test, i.e. tests in which the deformability of the frame of the machine and its load cell do not introduce significant errors into the results. Examples of its use in measuring the toughness of biomaterials by scissors (paper, wood) and wedges (mung bean starch gels) are given.

Fracture toughness of brittle materials determined with chevron notch specimens

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Shannon, J. L., Jr.; Bubsey, R. T.; Pierce, W. S.; Munz, D.

1981-01-01

Short bar, short rod, and four-point-bend chevron-notch specimens were used to determine the plane strain fracture toughness of hot-pressed silicon nitride and sintered aluminum oxide brittle ceramics. The unique advantages of this specimen type are: (1) the production of a sharp natural crack during the early stage of test loading, so that no precracking is required, and (2) the load passes through a maximum at a constant, material-independent crack length-to-width ratio for a specific geometry, so that no post-test crack measurement is required. The plane strain fracture toughness is proportional to the maximum test load and functions of the specimen geometry and elastic compliance. Although results obtained for silicon nitride are in good mutual agreement and relatively free of geometry and size effects, aluminum oxide results were affected in both these respects by the rising crack growth resistance curve of the material.

The Influence of Specimen Type on Tensile Fracture Toughness of Rock Materials

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Aliha, Mohammad Reza Mohammad; Mahdavi, Eqlima; Ayatollahi, Majid Reza

2017-03-01

Up to now, several methods have been proposed to determine the mode I fracture toughness of rocks. In this research, different cylindrical and disc shape samples, namely: chevron bend (CB), short rod (SR), cracked chevron notched Brazilian disc (CCNBD), and semi-circular bend (SCB) specimens were considered for investigating mode I fracture behavior of a marble rock. It is shown experimentally that the fracture toughness values of the tested rock material obtained from different test specimens are not consistent. Indeed, depending on the geometry and loading type of the specimen, noticeable discrepancies can be observed for the fracture toughness of a same rock material. The difference between the experimental mode I fracture resistance results is related to the magnitude and sign of T-stress that is dependent on the geometry and loading configuration of the specimen. For the chevron-notched samples, the critical value of T-stress corresponding to the critical crack length was determined using the finite element method. The CCNBD and SR specimens had the most negative and positive T-stress values, respectively. The dependency of mode I fracture resistance to the T-stress was shown using the extended maximum tangential strain (EMTSN) criterion and the obtained experimental rock fracture toughness data were predicted successfully with this criterion.

[Relative fracture toughness of differents dental ceramics].

PubMed

Pagani, Clovis; Miranda, Carolina Baptista; Bottino, Marco Cícero

2003-03-01

Although ceramics present high compressive strength, they are brittle materials due to their low tensile strength so they have lower capacity to absorb shocks. This study evaluated the fracture toughness of different ceramic systems, which refers to the ability of a friable material to absorb defformation energy. Three ceramic systems were investigated. Ten cylindrical samples (5,0mm x 3,0mm), were obtained from each ceramic material as follows: G1- 10 samples of Vitadur Alpha (Vita-Zahnfabrik); G2- 10 samples of IPS Empress2 (Ivoclar-Vivadent); G3- 10 samples of In-Ceram Alumina (Vita-Zahnfabrik). Fracture toughness values were collected upon indentation tests that were performed under a heavy load. A microhardness tester (Digital Microhardness Tester FM) utilized a 500gf load cell during 10seconds to perform four impressions on each sample. Statistically significant results were observed (ANOVA and Kruskal-Wallis tests). In-Ceram Alumina presented the highest median toughness values (2,96N/m3/2), followed by Vitadur Alpha (2,08N/m3/2) and IPS Empress2 (1,05N/m3/2). It may be concluded that different ceramic systems present distinct fracture toughness values, thus In-Ceram is capable of absorbing superior stress when compared to Vitadur Alpha and IPS Empress2.

Experimental investigation of CNT effect on curved beam strength and interlaminar fracture toughness of CFRP laminates

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Arca, M. A.; Coker, D.

2014-06-01

High mechanical properties and light weight structures of composite materials and advances in manufacturing processes have increased the use of composite materials in the aerospace and wind energy industries as a primary load carrying structures in complex shapes. However, use of composite materials in complex geometries such as L-shaped laminates creates weakness at the radius which causes delamination. Carbon nanotubes (CNTs) is preferred as a toughening materials in composite matrices due to their high mechanical properties and aspect ratios. However, effect of CNTs on curved beam strength (CBS) is not investigated in literature comprehensively. The objective of this study is to investigate the effect of CNT on Mode I and Mode II fracture toughness and CBS. L-shaped beams are fabric carbon/epoxy composite laminates manufactured by hand layup technique. Curved beam composite laminates were subjected to four point bending loading according to ASTM D6415/D6415M-06a. Double cantilever beam (DCB) tests and end notch flexure (ENF) tests were conducted to determine mode-I and mode-II fracture toughness, respectively. Preliminary results show that 3% CNT addition to the resin increased the mode-I fracture toughness by %25 and mode-II fracture toughness by %10 compared to base laminates. In contrast, no effect on curved beam strength was found.

Dynamic Fracture Properties of Rocks Subjected to Static Pre-load Using Notched Semi-circular Bend Method

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Chen, Rong; Li, Kang; Xia, Kaiwen; Lin, Yuliang; Yao, Wei; Lu, Fangyun

2016-10-01

A dynamic load superposed on a static pre-load is a key problem in deep underground rock engineering projects. Based on a modified split Hopkinson pressure bar test system, the notched semi-circular bend (NSCB) method is selected to investigate the fracture initiation toughness of rocks subjected to pre-load. In this study, a two-dimensional ANSYS finite element simulation model is developed to calculate the dimensionless stress intensity factor. Three groups of NSCB specimen are tested under a pre-load of 0, 37 and 74 % of the maximum static load and with the loading rate ranging from 0 to 60 GPa m1/2 s-1. The results show that under a given pre-load, the fracture initiation toughness of rock increases with the loading rate, resembling the typical rate dependence of materials. Furthermore, the dynamic rock fracture toughness decreases with the static pre-load at a given loading rate. The total fracture toughness, defined as the sum of the dynamic fracture toughness and initial stress intensity factor calculated from the pre-load, increases with the pre-load at a given loading rate. An empirical equation is used to represent the effect of loading rate and pre-load force, and the results show that this equation can depict the trend of the experimental data.

Micromechanics of ultra-toughened electrospun PMMA/PEO fibres as revealed by in-situ tensile testing in an electron microscope

PubMed Central

Andersson, Richard L.; Ström, Valter; Gedde, Ulf W.; Mallon, Peter E.; Hedenqvist, Mikael S.; Olsson, Richard T.

2014-01-01

A missing cornerstone in the development of tough micro/nano fibre systems is an understanding of the fibre failure mechanisms, which stems from the limitation in observing the fracture of objects with dimensions one hundredth of the width of a hair strand. Tensile testing in the electron microscope is herein adopted to reveal the fracture behaviour of a novel type of toughened electrospun poly(methyl methacrylate)/poly(ethylene oxide) fibre mats for biomedical applications. These fibres showed a toughness more than two orders of magnitude greater than that of pristine PMMA fibres. The in-situ microscopy revealed that the toughness were not only dependent on the initial molecular alignment after spinning, but also on the polymer formulation that could promote further molecular orientation during the formation of micro/nano-necking. The true fibre strength was greater than 150 MPa, which was considerably higher than that of the unmodified PMMA (17 MPa). This necking phenomenon was prohibited by high aspect ratio cellulose nanocrystal fillers in the ultra–tough fibres, leading to a decrease in toughness by more than one order of magnitude. The reported necking mechanism may have broad implications also within more traditional melt–spinning research. PMID:25208692

Mechanical characterization of composite repairs for fiberglass wind turbine blades

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Chawla, Tanveer Singh

While in service, wind turbine blades experience various modes of loading. An example is impact loading in the form of hail or bird strikes, which might lead to localized damage or formation of cracks a few plies deep on the blade surface. One of the methods to conduct repairs on wind turbine blades that are damaged while in service is hand lay-up of the repair part after grinding out the damaged portion and some of its surrounding area. The resin used for such repairs usually differs from the parent plate resin in composition and properties such as gel time, viscosity, etc. As a result the properties of the repaired parts are not the same as that of the undamaged blades. Subsequent repetitive loading can be detrimental to weak repairs to such an extent so as to cause delamination at the parent-repair bondline causing the repairs to eventually fall off the blade. Thus the strength and toughness of the repair are of critical importance. Initial part of this work consists of an effort to increase repair strength by identifying an optimum hand layup repair resin for fiberglass wind turbine blades currently being manufactured by a global company. As delamination of the repair from the parent blade is a major concern and unidirectional glass fibers along with a polymer resin are used to manufacture blades under consideration, testing method detailed in ASTM D 5528 (Test Method for Mode I Interlaminar Fracture Toughness of Unidirectional Fiber-Reinforced Polymer Matrix Composites) was followed to determine propagation fracture toughness values of the prospective vinyl ester repair resin candidates. These values were compared to those for a base polyester repair resin used by the company. Experimental procedure and results obtained from the above mentioned testing using double cantilever beam (DCB) specimens are detailed. Three new repair resins were shortlisted through mode I testing. It was also found that variation in the depth of the ground top ply of the parent part affects the propagation fracture toughness values of the repair. Repairs conducted on surfaces with partially ground top plies possess higher fracture toughness values than those conducted on surfaces with complete top plies ground off. The three top repair resin candidates were then evaluated against the base repair resin under fatigue loading. The specimen configuration and testing method were chosen so as to be able to test hand layup repairs under tension -- tension cyclic loading. It was observed that all three new repair resins perform better than the base repair resin. The selection of the optimum repair resin was based on results from mode I and fatigue testing. Global manufacturing regulations and standards were also of prime concern. The final new repair resin is being used by the company in all of its plants over the globe. The balance of this work involves study of the effect of mixed mode I -- mode II loading on the strength of repairs conducted on fiber reinforced composite parts using hand lay-up technique. The specimens for this part were similar to those manufactured for mode I testing but with different dimensions and layup. They were made and tested in accordance with ASTM D 6671 (Standard Test Method for Mixed Mode I -- Mode II Interlaminar Fracture Toughness of Unidirectional Fiber Reinforced Polymer Matrix Composites). Comparison was made between the fracture toughness of the above chosen optimum repair resin and the base repair resin. At least two levels of mode mixture GII/G (Mode II fracture toughness / Mode I and II fracture toughness) were examined. Also, two levels of grinding were considered (complete ply vs. partial ply ground off) in order to establish the influence of varying top-ply grinding depths on the strength of hand layup repairs conducted on fiberglass composite structures. The results of this work have the potential to improve the repair process for current fiberglass wind turbine blades.

Significance of reheat cracks to the integrity of pressure vessels for light-water reactors

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Canonico, D.A.

1979-05-01

Reheat cracks manifest themselves as macroscopic defects detectable by nondestructive testing (NDT) procedures or as microscopic grain boundary decohesions (GBD) that are beyond the limit of detection by NDT. The significance of the microscopic cracks that may go undetected are discussed. The probability that GBD exist in the heat-affected zones (HAZ) of weldments of pressure vessel steels is high; particularly in SA508 Class 2 weldments. GBD reside in the coarse-grained region of the HAZ. The microstructure of this region tends to be a tempered martensite or lower bainite, a structure whose fracture toughness is superior to that of a highermore » temperature transformation product. This region should be less sensitive to irradiation embrittlement. Toughness data for this region in either the unirradiated or irradiated condition are sparse; however, those data that are available indicate that this area is superior in toughness to the base metal. A sample of the HAZ from the prolongation-weldment from the Heavy Section Steel Technology program Intermediate Test Vessel (ITV) No. 4 was examined by the Staatliche Materialpruefungsanstalt (MPA). They reported GBD 5 mm (0.2 in.) long. This prompted an examination of the HAZ from the ITV vessel that had been tested to failure at 24 C (75 F). During testing, the region of the weld which contained the flaw that initiated the failure was strained up to 0.5%. A metallographic examination of this region of the weldment revealed GBD, but none of the size reported by the MPA. Further, there was no evidence that the GBD had extended as a consequence of the tests. Fracture toughness tests were made of the HAZ of welds from ITV-4. The electron-beam welding procedure, which permits more accurate siting of the crack, was used. Fracture toughness values in excess of 220 MPa/m (200 ksi/in.) were obtained at -18 C (O F).« less

Microstructure and properties of cryomilled nickel aluminide extruded with chromium or molybdenum

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Aikin, Beverly J. M.; Dickerson, Robert M.; Dickerson, Patricia O.

1995-01-01

Previous results from high energy, attrition milled NiAl in liquid nitrogen (cryomilled) indicate that this process can produce high temperature, creep resistant AlN particulate reinforced materials. However, the low temperature toughness of such materials is below that preferred for structural applications in aerospace engines. In order to improve the toughness of these materials, prealloyed nickel aluminide (Ni-53 atomic percent Al) powder was cryomilled and mixed with chromium or molybdenum powders. The resulting materials were hot extruded and tested for room temperature toughness and 1300 K compressive strength.

Measure of microhardness, fracture toughness and flexural strength of N-vinylcaprolactam (NVC)-containing glass-ionomer dental cements.

PubMed

Moshaverinia, Alireza; Brantley, William A; Chee, Winston W L; Rohpour, Nima; Ansari, Sahar; Zheng, Fengyuan; Heshmati, Reza H; Darr, Jawwad A; Schricker, Scott R; Rehman, Ihtesham U

2010-12-01

To investigate the effects of N-vinylcaprolactam (NVC)-containing terpolymers on the fracture toughness, microhardness, and flexural strength of conventional glass-ionomer cements (GIC). The terpolymer of acrylic acid (AA)-itaconic acid (IA)-N-vinylcaprolactam (NVC) with 8:1:1 (AA:IA:NVC) molar ratio was synthesized by free radical polymerization and characterized using (1)H NMR and FTIR. Experimental GIC samples were made from a 50% solution of the synthesized terpolymer with Fuji IX powder in a 3.6:1 P/L ratio. Specimens were mixed and fabricated at room temperature. Plane strain fracture toughness (K(Ic)) was measured in accordance with ASTM Standard 399-05. Vickers hardness was determined using a microhardness tester. Flexural strength was measured using samples with dimensions of 2 mm×2 mm×20 mm. For all mechanical property tests, specimens were first conditioned in distilled water at 37°C for 1 day or 1 week. Fracture toughness and flexural strength tests were conducted on a screw-driven universal testing machine using a crosshead speed of 0.5mm/min. Values of mechanical properties for the experimental GIC were compared with the control group (Fuji IX GIC), using one-way ANOVA and the Tukey multiple range test at α=0.05. The NVC-modified GIC exhibited significantly higher fracture toughness compared to the commercially available Fuji IX GIC, along with higher mean values of flexural strength and Vickers hardness, which were not significantly different. It was concluded that NVC-containing polymers are capable of enhancing clinically relevant properties for GICs. This new modified glass-ionomer is a promising restorative dental material. Copyright © 2010 Academy of Dental Materials. Published by Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

Changes in bone microstructure and toughness during the healing process of long bones

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Ishimoto, T.; Nakano, T.; Umakoshi, Y.; Tabata, Y.

2009-05-01

It is of great importance to understand how bone defects regain the microstructure and mechanical function of bone and how the microstructure affects the mechanical function during the bone healing process. In the present study on long bone defects, we investigated the relationship between the recovery process of fracture toughness and biological apatite (BAp)/collagen (Col) alignment as an index of the bone microstructure to clarify the bone toughening mechanisms. A 5-mm defect introduced in the rabbit ulna was allowed to heal naturally and a three-point bending test was conducted on the regenerated site to assess bone toughness. The bone toughness was quite low at the early stage of bone regeneration but increased during the postoperative period. The change in toughness agreed well with the characteristics of the fracture surface morphology, which reflected the history of the crack propagation. SEM and microbeam X-ray diffraction analyses indicated that the toughness was dominated by the degree and orientation of the preferred BAp/Col alignment, i.e. bundles aligned perpendicular to the crack propagation clearly contributed to the bone toughening owing to extra energy consumption for resistance to crack propagation. In conclusion, regenerated bone improves fracture toughness by reconstructing the preferred BAp/Col alignment along the bone longitudinal axis during the healing process of long bones.

Proof-test-based life prediction of high-toughness pressure vessels

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Panontin, T.L.; Hill, M.R.

1996-02-01

The paper examines the problems associated with applying proof-test-based life prediction to vessels made of high-toughness metals. Two A106 Gr B pipe specimens containing long, through-wall circumferential flaws were tested. One failed during hydrostatic testing and the other during tension-tension cycling following a hydrostatic test. Quantitative fractography was used to verify experimentally obtained fatigue crack growth rates and a variety of LEFM and EPFM techniques were used to analyze the experimental results. The results show that: plastic collapse analysis provides accurate predictions of screened (initial) crack size when the flow stress is determined experimentally; LEFM analysis underestimates the crack sizemore » screened by the proof test and overpredicts the subsequent fatigue life of the vessel when retardation effects are small (i.e., low proof levels); and, at a high proof-test level (2.4 {times} operating pressure), the large retardation effect on fatigue crack growth due to the overload overwhelmed the deleterious effect on fatigue life from stable tearing during the proof test and alleviated the problem of screening only long cracks due to the high toughness of the metal.« less

Fracture toughness testing data: A technology survey

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Stuhrke, W. F.; Carpenter, J. L., Jr.

1975-01-01

Technical abstracts for about 90 significant documents relating to fracture toughness testing for various structural materials including information on plane strain and the developing areas of mixed mode and plane stress test conditions are presented. An overview of the state-of-the-art represented in the documents that have been abstracted is included. The abstracts in the report are mostly for publications in the period April 1962 through April 1974. The purpose of this report is to provide, in quick reference form, a dependable source for current information in the subject field.

An efficient method for gene silencing in human primary plasmacytoid dendritic cells: silencing of the TLR7/IRF-7 pathway as a proof of concept

PubMed Central

Smith, Nikaïa; Vidalain, Pierre-Olivier; Nisole, Sébastien; Herbeuval, Jean-Philippe

2016-01-01

Plasmacytoid dendritic cells (pDC) are specialized immune cells that produce massive levels of type I interferon in response to pathogens. Unfortunately, pDC are fragile and extremely rare, rendering their functional study a tough challenge. However, because of their central role in numerous pathologies, there is a considerable need for an efficient and reproducible protocol for gene silencing in these cells. In this report, we tested six different methods for siRNA delivery into primary human pDC including viral-based, lipid-based, electroporation, and poly-ethylenimine (PEI) technologies. We show that lipid-based reagent DOTAP was extremely efficient for siRNA delivery into pDC, and did not induce cell death or pDC activation. We successfully silenced Toll-Like Receptor 7 (TLR7), CXCR4 and IFN regulatory factor 7 (IRF-7) gene expression in pDC as assessed by RT-qPCR or cytometry. Finally, we showed that TLR7 or IRF-7 silencing in pDC specifically suppressed IFN-α production upon stimulation, providing a functional validation of our transfection protocol. PMID:27412723

The Effect of Curing Temperature on the Fracture Toughness of Fiberglass Epoxy Composites

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Ryan, Thomas J.

The curing reaction in a thermoset polymer matrix composite is often accelerated by the addition of heat in an oven or autoclave. The heat added increases the rate of the polymerization reaction and cross-linking in the material. The cure cycle used (temperature, pressure and time) can therefore alter the final material properties. This research focuses on how the curing temperature (250, 275, 300 °F) affects the yield strength and the mode I interlaminar fracture toughness, GI, of a unidirectional S-2 glass epoxy composite. The test method that was used for the tension test was ASTM D3039 and the test method for the mode I interlaminar fracture toughness, the double cantilever beam (DCB) test, was ASTM D5528. The DCB specimens were fabricated with a non-adhesive insert at the midplane of the composite that serves as the initiatior of the delamination. Opening forces were then applied to the specimen, causing the crack propagation. The results show that increasing the cure temperature by 50 °F increased the tensile strength by 10% (86.54 - 94.73 ksi) and decreased the fracture toughness 20% (506.23 - 381.31 J/m 2). Thus, the curing temperature can cause a trade-off between these two properties, which means that the curing cycle will need to be altered based on the intended use and the required material properties.

Effects of Zr, Ti, and Al Additions on Nonmetallic Inclusions and Impact Toughness of Cast Low-Alloy Steel

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Bizyukov, Pavel V.; Giese, Scott R.

2017-04-01

A microalloying of the low-carbon and low-alloy cast steel was conducted with Zr, Ti, and Al that were added to the steel in four combinations. After heat treatment, the samples were tested for impact toughness at room temperature using the Charpy method. The highest values of impact toughness were obtained in the group treated with Zr, while Zr-Ti and Zr-Ti-Al groups showed moderate toughness values; the lowest values were observed in the Zr-Al group. Difference among the treatment groups was observed in the fracture mechanisms, morphology, and area distribution of the inclusions. High toughness values achieved in the trials treated with zirconium corresponded with smooth ductile fracture. The metal treated with a combination of zirconium and titanium had a relatively small area occupied by inclusions, but its toughness was also moderate. Lowest impact toughness values corresponded with the larger area occupied by the inclusions in the trials treated with aluminum. Also, a connection between the solubility product [Al][N] and impact toughness was established. The study also provides a qualitative description and quantitative analysis of the nonmetallic inclusions formation as a result of microalloying treatment. The precipitation sequence of the inclusions was described based on the thermochemical calculations for the nonmetallic compounds discovered in the experimental steel. A description of the size distribution, morphology, and composition was conducted for the oxides, nitrides, sulfides, and multiphase particles.

Fracture toughness of fibrous composite materials

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Poe, C. C., Jr.

1984-01-01

Laminates with various proportions of 0 deg, 45 deg, and 90 deg plies were fabricated from T300/5208 and T300/BP-907 graphite/epoxy prepreg tape material. The fracture toughness of each laminate orientation or lay-up was determined by testing center-cracked specimens, and it was also predicted with the general fracture-toughness parameter. The predictions were good except when crack-tip splitting was large, at which time the toughness and strengths tended to be underpredicted. By using predictions, a parametric study was also made of factors that influence fracture toughness. Fiber and matrix properties as well as lay-up were investigated. Without crack-tip splitting, fracture toughness increases in proportion to fiber strength and fiber volume fraction, increases linearly with E(22)/E(11), is largest when the modulus for non-0 deg fibers is greater than that of 0 deg fibers, and is smallest for 0(m)/90(p)(s) lay-ups. (The E(11) and E(22) are Young's moduli of the lamina parallel to and normal to the direction of the fibers, respectively). For a given proportion of 0 deg plies, the most notch-sensitive lay-ups are 0(m)/90(p)(s) and the least sensitive are 0(m)/45(n)(s) and alpha(s). Notch sensitivity increases with the proportion of 0 deg plies and decreases with alpha. Strong, tough matrix materials, which inhibit crack-tip splitting, generally lead to minimum fracture toughness.

Please, Not Another Push to Get Tough on Student Retention

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Norton, M. Scott

2011-01-01

Standardized academic testing, under-performing schools, demands for high standards in America's schools and current levels of student dropouts have resulted in renewed calls for "getting tough on student retention." The push for student retention is demanded by school boards and others in spite of the overwhelming research evidence that…

Mechanical properties of contemporary composite resins and their interrelations.

PubMed

Thomaidis, Socratis; Kakaboura, Afrodite; Mueller, Wolf Dieter; Zinelis, Spiros

2013-08-01

To characterize a spectrum of mechanical properties of four representative types of modern dental resin composites and to investigate possible interrelations. Four composite resins were used, a microhybrid (Filtek Z-250), a nanofill (Filtek Ultimate), a nanohybrid (Majesty Posterior) and an ormocer (Admira). The mechanical properties investigated were Flexural Modulus and Flexural Strength (three point bending), Brinell Hardness, Impact Strength, mode I and mode II fracture toughness employing SENB and Brazilian tests and Work of Fracture. Fractographic analysis was carried out in an SEM to determine the origin of fracture for specimens subjected to SENB, Brazilian and Impact Strength testing. The results were statistically analyzed employing ANOVA and Tukey post hoc test (a=0.05) while Pearson correlation was applied among the mechanical properties. Significant differences were found between the mechanical properties of materials tested apart from mode I fracture toughness measured by Brazilian test. The latter significantly underestimated the mode I fracture toughness due to analytical limitations and thus its validity is questionable. Fractography revealed that the origin of fracture is located at notches for fracture toughness tests and contact surface with pendulum for Impact Strength testing. Pearson analysis illustrated a strong correlation between modulus of elasticity and hardness (r=0.87) and a weak negative correlation between Work of Fracture and Flexural Modulus (r=-0.46) and Work of Fracture and Hardness (r=-0.44). Weak correlations were also allocated between Flexural Modulus and Flexural Strength (r=0.40), Flexural Strength and Hardness (r=0.39), and Impact Strength and Hardness (r=0.40). Since the four types of dental resin composite tested exhibited large differences among their mechanical properties differences in their clinical performance is also anticipated. Copyright © 2013 Academy of Dental Materials. Published by Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

Strength, Fracture Toughness, Fatigue, and Standardization Issues of Free-standing Thermal Barrier Coatings

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Choi, Sung R.; Zhu, Dong-Ming; Miller, Robert A.

2003-01-01

Strength, fracture toughness and fatigue behavior of free-standing thick thermal barrier coatings of plasma-sprayed ZrO2-8wt % Y2O3 were determined at ambient and elevated temperatures in an attempt to establish a database for design. Strength, in conjunction with deformation (stress-strain behavior), was evaluated in tension (uniaxial and trans-thickness), compression, and uniaxial and biaxial flexure; fracture toughness was determined in various load conditions including mode I, mode II, and mixed modes I and II; fatigue or slow crack growth behavior was estimated in cyclic tension and dynamic flexure loading. Effect of sintering was quantified through approaches using strength, fracture toughness, and modulus (constitutive relations) measurements. Standardization issues on test methodology also was presented with a special regard to material's unique constitutive relations.

Evaluating Embedded Heater Bonding for Composites

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Carte, Casey

Out-of-autoclave bonding of high-strength carbon-fiber composites structures can reduce costs associated with autoclaves. Nevertheless, a concern is whether out-of-autoclave bonding results in a loss of delamination toughness. The main contribution of this paper is to comparatively evaluate the delamination toughness of adhesively bonded composite parts using carbon fiber embedded heaters and those bonded in an autoclave. Carbon Fiber Reinforced Polymer (CFRP) adherends were bonded by passing an electrical current through a layer of carbon fiber prepreg embedded at the bondline between two electrically insulating thin film adhesives. The delamination toughness was evaluated under mode I dominated loading conditions using a modified single cantilever beam test. Experimental results show that the delamination toughness of specimens bonded using a carbon fiber embedded heater was comparable to that of samples bonded in an autoclave.

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Rutqvist, J.; Ijiri, Y.; Yamamoto, H.

This paper presents the implementation of the Barcelona Basic Model (BBM) into the TOUGH-FLAC simulator analyzing the geomechanical behavior of unsaturated soils. We implemented the BBM into TOUGH-FLAC by (1) extending an existing FLAC{sup 3D} module for the Modified Cam-Clay (MCC) model in FLAC{sup 3D} and (2) adding computational routines for suction-dependent strain and net stress (i.e., total stress minus gas pressure) for unsaturated soils. We implemented a thermo-elasto-plastic version of the BBM, wherein the soil strength depends on both suction and temperature. The implementation of the BBM into TOUGH-FLAC was verified and tested against several published numerical model simulationsmore » and laboratory experiments involving the coupled thermal-hydrological-mechanical (THM) behavior of unsaturated soils. The simulation tests included modeling the mechanical behavior of bentonite-sand mixtures, which are being considered as back-fill and buffer materials for geological disposal of spent nuclear fuel. We also tested and demonstrated the use of the BBM and TOUGH-FLAC for a problem involving the coupled THM processes within a bentonite-backfilled nuclear waste emplacement tunnel. The simulation results indicated complex geomechanical behavior of the bentonite backfill, including a nonuniform distribution of buffer porosity and density that could not be captured in an alternative, simplified, linear-elastic swelling model. As a result of the work presented in this paper, TOUGH-FLAC with BBM is now fully operational and ready to be applied to problems associated with nuclear waste disposal in bentonite-backfilled tunnels, as well as other scientific and engineering problems related to the mechanical behavior of unsaturated soils.« less

Effects of age and loading rate on equine cortical bone failure.

PubMed

Kulin, Robb M; Jiang, Fengchun; Vecchio, Kenneth S

2011-01-01

Although clinical bone fractures occur predominantly under impact loading (as occurs during sporting accidents, falls, high-speed impacts or other catastrophic events), experimentally validated studies on the dynamic fracture behavior of bone, at the loading rates associated with such events, remain limited. In this study, a series of tests were performed on femoral specimens obtained post-mortem from equine donors ranging in age from 6 months to 28 years. Fracture toughness and compressive tests were performed under both quasi-static and dynamic loading conditions in order to determine the effects of loading rate and age on the mechanical behavior of the cortical bone. Fracture toughness experiments were performed using a four-point bending geometry on single and double-notch specimens in order to measure fracture toughness, as well as observe differences in crack initiation between dynamic and quasi-static experiments. Compressive properties were measured on bone loaded parallel and transverse to the osteonal growth direction. Fracture propagation was then analyzed using scanning electron and scanning confocal microscopy to observe the effects of microstructural toughening mechanisms at different strain rates. Specimens from each horse were also analyzed for dry, wet and mineral densities, as well as weight percent mineral, in order to investigate possible influences of composition on mechanical behavior. Results indicate that bone has a higher compressive strength, but lower fracture toughness when tested dynamically as compared to quasi-static experiments. Fracture toughness also tends to decrease with age when measured quasi-statically, but shows little change with age under dynamic loading conditions, where brittle "cleavage-like" fracture behavior dominates. Copyright © 2010 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

Effects of spatial heterogeneity and material anisotropy on the fracture pattern and macroscopic effective toughness of Mancos Shale in Brazilian tests

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Na, SeonHong; Sun, WaiChing; Ingraham, Mathew D.; Yoon, Hongkyu

2017-08-01

For assessing energy-related activities in the subsurface, it is important to investigate the impact of the spatial variability and anisotropy on the geomechanical behavior of shale. The Brazilian test, an indirect tensile-splitting method, is performed in this work, and the evolution of strain field is obtained using digital image correlation. Experimental results show the significant impact of local heterogeneity and lamination on the crack pattern characteristics. For numerical simulations, a phase field method is used to simulate the brittle fracture behavior under various Brazilian test conditions. In this study, shale is assumed to consist of two constituents including the stiff and soft layers to which the same toughness but different elastic moduli are assigned. Microstructural heterogeneity is simplified to represent mesoscale (e.g., millimeter scale) features such as layer orientation, thickness, volume fraction, and defects. The effect of these structural attributes on the onset, propagation, and coalescence of cracks is explored. The simulation results show that spatial heterogeneity and material anisotropy highly affect crack patterns and effective fracture toughness, and the elastic contrast of two constituents significantly alters the effective toughness. However, the complex crack patterns observed in the experiments cannot completely be accounted for by either an isotropic or transversely isotropic effective medium approach. This implies that cracks developed in the layered system may coalesce in complicated ways depending on the local heterogeneity, and the interaction mechanisms between the cracks using two-constituent systems may explain the wide range of effective toughness of shale reported in the literature.

Effects of spatial heterogeneity and material anisotropy on the fracture pattern and macroscopic effective toughness of Mancos Shale in Brazilian tests

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Na, SeonHong; Sun, WaiChing; Ingraham, Mathew D.

For assessing energy-related activities in the subsurface, it is important to investigate the impact of the spatial variability and anisotropy on the geomechanical behavior of shale. The Brazilian test, an indirect tensile-splitting method, is performed in this work, and the evolution of strain field is obtained using digital image correlation. Experimental results show the significant impact of local heterogeneity and lamination on the crack pattern characteristics. For numerical simulations, a phase field method is used to simulate the brittle fracture behavior under various Brazilian test conditions. In this study, shale is assumed to consist of two constituents including the stiffmore » and soft layers to which the same toughness but different elastic moduli are assigned. Microstructural heterogeneity is simplified to represent mesoscale (e.g., millimeter scale) features such as layer orientation, thickness, volume fraction, and defects. The effect of these structural attributes on the onset, propagation, and coalescence of cracks is explored. The simulation results show that spatial heterogeneity and material anisotropy highly affect crack patterns and effective fracture toughness, and the elastic contrast of two constituents significantly alters the effective toughness. However, the complex crack patterns observed in the experiments cannot completely be accounted for by either an isotropic or transversely isotropic effective medium approach. In conclusion, this implies that cracks developed in the layered system may coalesce in complicated ways depending on the local heterogeneity, and the interaction mechanisms between the cracks using two-constituent systems may explain the wide range of effective toughness of shale reported in the literature.« less

Effects of spatial heterogeneity and material anisotropy on the fracture pattern and macroscopic effective toughness of Mancos Shale in Brazilian tests

DOE PAGES

Na, SeonHong; Sun, WaiChing; Ingraham, Mathew D.; ...

2017-07-31

For assessing energy-related activities in the subsurface, it is important to investigate the impact of the spatial variability and anisotropy on the geomechanical behavior of shale. The Brazilian test, an indirect tensile-splitting method, is performed in this work, and the evolution of strain field is obtained using digital image correlation. Experimental results show the significant impact of local heterogeneity and lamination on the crack pattern characteristics. For numerical simulations, a phase field method is used to simulate the brittle fracture behavior under various Brazilian test conditions. In this study, shale is assumed to consist of two constituents including the stiffmore » and soft layers to which the same toughness but different elastic moduli are assigned. Microstructural heterogeneity is simplified to represent mesoscale (e.g., millimeter scale) features such as layer orientation, thickness, volume fraction, and defects. The effect of these structural attributes on the onset, propagation, and coalescence of cracks is explored. The simulation results show that spatial heterogeneity and material anisotropy highly affect crack patterns and effective fracture toughness, and the elastic contrast of two constituents significantly alters the effective toughness. However, the complex crack patterns observed in the experiments cannot completely be accounted for by either an isotropic or transversely isotropic effective medium approach. In conclusion, this implies that cracks developed in the layered system may coalesce in complicated ways depending on the local heterogeneity, and the interaction mechanisms between the cracks using two-constituent systems may explain the wide range of effective toughness of shale reported in the literature.« less

Improvement of Strength-Toughness-Hardness Balance in Large Cross-Section 718H Pre-Hardened Mold Steel

PubMed Central

Liu, Hanghang; Fu, Paixian; Liu, Hongwei; Li, Dianzhong

2018-01-01

The strength-toughness combination and hardness uniformity in large cross-section 718H pre-hardened mold steel from a 20 ton ingot were investigated with three different heat treatments for industrial applications. The different microstructures, including tempered martensite, lower bainite, and retained austenite, were obtained at equivalent hardness. The microstructures were characterized by using metallographic observations, scanning electron microscopy (SEM), transmission electron microscopy (TEM), X-ray diffraction (XRD), and electron back-scattered diffraction (EBSD). The mechanical properties were compared by tensile, Charpy U-notch impact and hardness uniformity tests at room temperature. The results showed that the test steels after normalizing-quenching-tempering (N-QT) possessed the best strength-toughness combination and hardness uniformity compared with the conventional quenched-tempered (QT) steel. In addition, the test steel after austempering-tempering (A-T) demonstrated the worse hardness uniformity and lower yield strength while possessing relatively higher elongation (17%) compared with the samples after N-QT (14.5%) treatments. The better ductility of A-T steel mainly depended on the amount and morphology of retained austenite and thermal/deformation-induced twined martensite. This work elucidates the mechanisms of microstructure evolution during heat treatments and will highly improve the strength-toughness-hardness trade-off in large cross-section steels. PMID:29642642

Short Time Elevated Temperature Tensile Properties and Notch Toughness of Some Chromium-Iron Alloys

DTIC Science & Technology

1957-06-07

toughness of matcrials A, B, and C was determined by using subsize V-notch Charpy Specimens, 1 inch long by 0.197 inch square prepared with their...elevated temperature tensile tests and V-notch Charpy imapact tests of som recently developed alloys with 4O,’a and 50,,1 ohromiuma are presented in this...lengths parallel to the longitudinal uxis of the alloy bars. In addition, some standard size V-notch Charpy specimens waro mach-ined from material B, for

Fracture Toughness Determination of Cracked Chevron Notched Brazilian Disc Rock Specimen via Griffith Energy Criterion Incorporating Realistic Fracture Profiles

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Xu, Yuan; Dai, Feng; Zhao, Tao; Xu, Nu-wen; Liu, Yi

2016-08-01

The cracked chevron notched Brazilian disc (CCNBD) specimen has been suggested by the International Society for Rock Mechanics to measure the mode I fracture toughness of rocks, and has been widely adopted in laboratory tests. Nevertheless, a certain discrepancy has been observed in results when compared with those derived from methods using straight through cracked specimens, which might be due to the fact that the fracture profiles of rock specimens cannot match the straight through crack front as assumed in the measuring principle. In this study, the progressive fracturing of the CCNBD specimen is numerically investigated using the discrete element method (DEM), aiming to evaluate the impact of the realistic cracking profiles on the mode I fracture toughness measurements. The obtained results validate the curved fracture fronts throughout the fracture process, as reported in the literature. The fracture toughness is subsequently determined via the proposed G-method originated from Griffith's energy theory, in which the evolution of the realistic fracture profile as well as the accumulated fracture energy is quantified by DEM simulation. A comparison between the numerical tests and the experimental results derived from both the CCNBD and the semi-circular bend (SCB) specimens verifies that the G-method incorporating realistic fracture profiles can contribute to narrowing down the gap between the fracture toughness values measured via the CCNBD and the SCB method.

Zirconia toughened SiC whisker reinforced alumina composites small business innovation research

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Loutfy, R. O.; Stuffle, K. L.; Withers, J. C.; Lee, C. T.

1987-01-01

The objective of this phase 1 project was to develop a ceramic composite with superior fracture toughness and high strength, based on combining two toughness inducing materials: zirconia for transformation toughening and SiC whiskers for reinforcement, in a controlled microstructure alumina matrix. The controlled matrix microstructure is obtained by controlling the nucleation frequency of the alumina gel with seeds (submicron alpha-alumina). The results demonstrate the technical feasibility of producing superior binary composites (Al2O3-ZrO2) and tertiary composites (Al2O3-ZrO2-SiC). Thirty-two composites were prepared, consolidated, and fracture toughness tested. Statistical analysis of the results showed that: (1) the SiC type is the key statistically significant factor for increased toughness; (2) sol-gel processing with a-alumina seed had a statistically significant effect on increasing toughness of the binary and tertiary composites compared to the corresponding mixed powder processing; and (3) ZrO2 content within the range investigated had a minor effect. Binary composites with an average critical fracture toughness of 6.6MPam sup 1/2, were obtained. Tertiary composites with critical fracture toughness in the range of 9.3 to 10.1 MPam sup 1/2 were obtained. Results indicate that these composites are superior to zirconia toughened alumina and SiC whisker reinforced alumina ceramic composites produced by conventional techniques with similar composition from published data.

Heavy-section steel irradiation program. Progress report, April 1996--September 1996

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Corwin, W.R.

1997-09-01

The Heavy-Section Steel Irradiation Program was established to quantitatively assess the effects of neutron irradiation on the material behavior of typical reactor pressure vessel (RPV) steels. During this period, fracture mechanics testing of specimens of the irradiated low upper shelf (LUS) weld were completed and analyses performed. Heat treatment of five RPV plate materials was initiated to examine phosphorus segregation effects on the fracture toughness of the heat affected zone of welds. Initial results show that all five materials exhibited very large prior austenite grain sizes as a consequence of the initial heat treatment. Irradiated and annealed specimens of LUSmore » weld material were tested and analyzed. Four sets of Charpy V-notch (CVN) specimens were aged at various temperatures and tested to examine the reason for overrecovery of upper shelf energy that has been observed. Molecular dynamics cascade simulations were extended to 40 keV and have provided information representative of most of the fast neutron spectrum. Investigations of the correlation between microstructural changes and hardness changes in irradiated model alloys was also completed. Preliminary planning for test specimen machining for the Japan Power Development Reactor was completed. A database of Charpy impact and fracture toughness data for RPV materials that have been tested in the unirradiated and irradiated conditions is being assembled and analyzed. Weld metal appears to have similar CVN and fracture toughness transition temperature shifts, whereas the fracture toughness shifts are greater than CVN shifts for base metals. Draft subcontractor reports on precracked cylindrical tensile specimens were completed, reviewed, and are being revised. Testing on precracked CVN specimens, both quasi-static and dynamic, was evaluated. Additionally, testing of compact specimens was initiated as an experimental comparison of constraint limitations. 16 figs., 2 tabs.« less

Apical bud toughness tests and tree sway movements to examine crown abrasion: preliminary results

Treesearch

Tyler Brannon; Wayne Clatterbuck

2012-01-01

Apical bud toughness differences were examined for several species to determine if crown abrasion affects shoot growth of determinate and indeterminate species during stand development. Determinate buds will set and harden after initial shoot elongation in the spring, while the indeterminate shoots form leaves from the apical meristem continuously based on the...

Cryogenic mechanical properties of low density superplastically formable Al-Li alloys

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Verzasconi, S. L.; Morris, J. W., Jr.

1989-01-01

The aerospace industry is considering the use of low density, superplastically formable (SPF) materials, such as Al-Li alloys in cryogenic tankage. SPF modifications of alloys 8090, 2090, and 2090+In were tested for strength and Kahn tear toughness. The results were compared to those of similar tests of 2219-T87, an alloy currently used in cryogenic tankage, and 2090-T81, a recently studied Al-Li alloy with exceptional cryogenic properties (1-9). With decreasing temperature, all materials showed an increase in strength, while most materials showed an increase in elongation and decrease in Kahn toughness. The indium addition to 2090 increased alloy strength, but did not improve the strength-toughness combination. The fracture mode was predominantly intergranular along small, recrystallized grains, with some transgranular fracture, some ductile rupture, and some delamination on large, unrecrystallized grains.

In Tropical Lowland Rain Forests Monocots have Tougher Leaves than Dicots, and Include a New Kind of Tough Leaf

PubMed Central

Dominy, Nathaniel J.; Grubb, Peter J.; Jackson, Robyn V.; Lucas, Peter W.; Metcalfe, Daniel J.; Svenning, Jens-Christian; Turner, Ian M.

2008-01-01

Background and Aims There has been little previous work on the toughness of the laminae of monocots in tropical lowland rain forest (TLRF) despite the potential importance of greater toughness in inhibiting herbivory by invertebrates. Of 15 monocot families with >100 species in TLRF, eight have notably high densities of fibres in the lamina so that high values for toughness are expected. Methods In north-eastern Australia punch strength was determined with a penetrometer for both immature leaves (approx. 30 % final area on average) and fully expanded, fully toughened leaves. In Singapore and Panama, fracture toughness was determined with an automated scissors apparatus using fully toughened leaves only. Key Results In Australia punch strength was, on average, 7× greater in shade-tolerant monocots than in neighbouring dicots at the immature stage, and 3× greater at the mature stage. In Singapore, shade-tolerant monocots had, on average, 1·3× higher values for fracture toughness than neighbouring dicots. In Panama, both shade-tolerant and gap-demanding monocots were tested; they did not differ in fracture toughness. The monocots had markedly higher values than the dicots whether shade-tolerant or gap-demanding species were considered. Conclusions It is predicted that monocots will be found to experience lower rates of herbivory by invertebrates than dicots. The tough monocot leaves include both stiff leaves containing relatively little water at saturation (e.g. palms), and leaves which lack stiffness, are rich in water at saturation and roll readily during dry weather or even in bright sun around midday (e.g. gingers, heliconias and marants). Monocot leaves also show that it is possible for leaves to be notably tough throughout the expansion phase of development, something never recorded for dicots. The need to broaden the botanist's mental picture of a ‘tough leaf’ is emphasized. PMID:18387969

In tropical lowland rain forests monocots have tougher leaves than dicots, and include a new kind of tough leaf.

PubMed

Dominy, Nathaniel J; Grubb, Peter J; Jackson, Robyn V; Lucas, Peter W; Metcalfe, Daniel J; Svenning, Jens-Christian; Turner, Ian M

2008-06-01

There has been little previous work on the toughness of the laminae of monocots in tropical lowland rain forest (TLRF) despite the potential importance of greater toughness in inhibiting herbivory by invertebrates. Of 15 monocot families with >100 species in TLRF, eight have notably high densities of fibres in the lamina so that high values for toughness are expected. In north-eastern Australia punch strength was determined with a penetrometer for both immature leaves (approx. 30 % final area on average) and fully expanded, fully toughened leaves. In Singapore and Panama, fracture toughness was determined with an automated scissors apparatus using fully toughened leaves only. In Australia punch strength was, on average, 7x greater in shade-tolerant monocots than in neighbouring dicots at the immature stage, and 3x greater at the mature stage. In Singapore, shade-tolerant monocots had, on average, 1.3x higher values for fracture toughness than neighbouring dicots. In Panama, both shade-tolerant and gap-demanding monocots were tested; they did not differ in fracture toughness. The monocots had markedly higher values than the dicots whether shade-tolerant or gap-demanding species were considered. It is predicted that monocots will be found to experience lower rates of herbivory by invertebrates than dicots. The tough monocot leaves include both stiff leaves containing relatively little water at saturation (e.g. palms), and leaves which lack stiffness, are rich in water at saturation and roll readily during dry weather or even in bright sun around midday (e.g. gingers, heliconias and marants). Monocot leaves also show that it is possible for leaves to be notably tough throughout the expansion phase of development, something never recorded for dicots. The need to broaden the botanist's mental picture of a 'tough leaf' is emphasized.

The Effect of Tempering Process on Microstructural Characteristics and Mechanical Properties of Induction Bend Pipe

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Yu, Hao; Zhou, Tao

The heat treatment during manufacturing process of induction bend pipe had been simulated. The evolutions of ferrite, M/A island and substructure after tempering at 500 700 °C were characterized by means of optical microscopy, positron annihilation technique, SEM, TEM, XRD and EBSD. The mechanical performance was evaluated by tensile test, Charpy V-notch impact test (-20 °C) and Vickers hardness test (10 kgf). Microstructure observations showed that fine and homogenous M/A islands as well as dislocation packages in quasi-polygonal ferrite matrix after tempering at 600 650 °C generated optimal combination of strength and toughness. After tempering at 700 °C, the yield strength decreased dramatically. EBSD analysis indicated that the effective grain size diminished with the tempering temperature increasing. It could cause more energy cost during microcrack propagation process with subsequent improvement in impact toughness. Dislocation analysis suggested that the decrease and pile-up of dislocation benefited the combination of strength and toughness.

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Khanal, Suraj P.; Mahfuz, Hassan; Rondinone, Adam Justin

The potential of improving the fracture toughness of synthetic hydroxyapatite (HAp) by incorporating carboxyl functionalized single walled carbon nanotubes (CfSWCNTs) and polymerized ε-caprolactam (nylon) was researched. A series of HAp samples with CfSWCNTs concentrations varying from 0 to 1.5 wt.%, without, and with nylon addition was prepared. X-ray diffraction (XRD), Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM), and Transmission Electron Microscopy (TEM) were used to characterize the samples. The three point bending test was applied to measure the fracture toughness of the composites. A reproducible value of 3.6 ± 0.3 MPa.√m was found for samples containing 1 wt.% CfSWCNTs and nylon. This valuemore » is in the range of the cortical bone fracture toughness. Lastly, the increase of the CfSWCNTs content results to decrease of the fracture toughness, and formation of secondary phases.« less

Investigation of Mechanical Properties and Fracture Simulation of Solution-Treated AA 5754

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Kumar, Pankaj; Singh, Akhilendra

2017-10-01

In this work, mechanical properties and fracture toughness of as-received and solution-treated aluminum alloy 5754 (AA 5754) are experimentally evaluated. Solution heat treatment of the alloy is performed at 530 °C for 2 h, and then, quenching is done in water. Yield strength, ultimate tensile strength, impact toughness, hardness, fatigue life, brittle fracture toughness (K_{Ic} ) and ductile fracture toughness (J_{Ic} ) are evaluated for as-received and solution-treated alloy. Extended finite element method has been used for the simulation of tensile and fracture behavior of material. Heaviside function and asymptotic crack tip enrichment functions are used for modelling of the crack in the geometry. Ramberg-Osgood material model coupled with fracture energy is used to simulate the crack propagation. Fracture surfaces obtained from various mechanical tests are characterized by scanning electron microscopy.

Corrigendum to 'On the influence of microstructure on the fracture behaviour of hot extruded ferritic ODS steels' [J. Nucl. Mater. 497 (2017) 60-75

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Das, A.; Viehrig, H. W.; Altstadt, E.; Heintze, C.; Hoffmann, J.

2018-02-01

ODS steels are known to show inferior fracture properties as compared to ferritic martensitic non-ODS steels. Hot extruded 13Cr ODS steel however, showed excellent fracture toughness at a temperature range from room temperature to 400 °C. In this work, the factors which resulted in superior and anisotropic fracture behaviour were investigated by comparing different orientations of two hot extruded materials using scanning electron, electron backscatter and transmission electron microscopy. Fracture behaviour of the two materials was compared using unloading compliance fracture toughness tests. Anisotropic fracture toughness was predominantly influenced by grain morphology. Superior fracture toughness in 13Cr ODS-KIT was predominantly influenced by factors such as smaller void inducing particle size and higher sub-micron particle-matrix interfacial strength.

Influence of nanoclay on interlaminar shear strength and fracture toughness of glass fiber reinforced nanocomposites

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Senthil Kumar, M. S.; Chithirai Pon Selvan, M.; Sampath, P. S.; Raja, K.; Balasundaram, K.

2018-04-01

Multilayer glass fiber reinforced polymer (GFRP) laminates filled with nanoclay was manufactured with compression moulding machine. In the present work, five kinds of nanoclay (Cloisite 25A) loadings viz. 2, 4, 6, 8 and 10% on weight basis of epoxy resin were employed to modify the interlaminar shear strength (ILSS), critical energy release rate (GIc) and impact energy properties of GFRP laminates. Experimental results obtained from ILSS test on clay filled GFRP confirm that the superior strength was attained at low clay content of 155.10 MPa. Furthermore, the mode I interlaminar fracture toughness test conducted on DCB specimens revealed that the commanding improvement of GIc was obtained at 2 wt.% clay content level. On the other hand, both ILSS and fracture toughness was getting reduced at higher clay loadings. At last, the impact strength of the test samples was investigated by using Izod impact test apparatus and observed that the impact energy was increased by 44.39% for 2 wt.% and followed by 24.87% for 4 wt.% clay loadings.

On the feasibility of the Chevron Notch Beam method to measure fracture toughness of fine-grained zirconia ceramics.

PubMed

Kailer, Andreas; Stephan, Marc

2016-10-01

The fracture toughness determination of fine-grained zirconia ceramics using the chevron notched beam method (CNB) was investigated to assess the feasibility of this method for quality assurance and material characterization. CNB tests were performed using four different yttria-stabilized zirconia ceramics under various testing modes and conditions, including displacement-controlled and load-rate-controlled four point bending to assess the influence of slow crack growth and identify most suitable test parameters. For comparison, tests using single-edge V-notch beams (SEVNB) were conducted. It was observed that the CNB method yields well-reproducible results. However, slow crack growth effects significantly affect the measured KIC values, especially when slow loading rates are used. To minimize the effect of slow crack growth, the application of high loading rates is recommended. Despite a certain effort needed for setting up a sample preparation routine, the CNB method is considered to be very useful for measuring and controlling the fracture toughness of zirconia ceramics. Copyright © 2016 The Academy of Dental Materials. Published by Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

Accurate characterization of wafer bond toughness with the double cantilever specimen

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Turner, Kevin T.; Spearing, S. Mark

2008-01-01

The displacement loaded double cantilever test, also referred to as the "Maszara test" and the "crack opening method" by the wafer bonding community, is a common technique used to evaluate the interface toughness or surface energy of direct wafer bonds. While the specimen is widely used, there has been a persistent question as to the accuracy of the method since the actual specimen geometry differs from the ideal beam geometry assumed in the expression used for data reduction. The effect of conducting the test on whole wafer pairs, in which the arms of cantilevers are wide plates rather than slender beams, is examined in this work using finite element analysis. A model is developed to predict the equilibrium shape of the crack front and to develop a corrected expression for calculating interface toughness from crack length measurements obtained in tests conducted on whole wafer pairs. The finite element model, which is validated through comparison to experiments, demonstrates that using the traditional beam theory-based expressions for data reduction can lead to errors of up to 25%.

Low-temperature mechanical properties of superconducting radio frequency cavity materials

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Byun, Thak Sang; Kim, Sang-Ho; Mammosser, John

2009-01-01

Low temperature mechanical behaviors have been investigated for the constituent materials of superconducting radio frequency cavities. Test materials consist of small grain Nb, single crystal Nb, large grain Nb (bicrystal), Ti45Nb-Nb weld joint (e-beam welded), and Ti-316L bimetal joint (explosion welded). The strength of all test metals displayed strong temperature dependence and the Ti-316L bimetal showed the highest strength and lowest ductility among the test materials. The fracture toughness of the small grain Nb metals decreased with decreasing test temperature and reached the lower shelf values (30 40 MPa m) at or above 173 K. The Ti45Nb base and Ti45Nb-Nbmore » weld metals showed much higher fracture toughness than the small grain Nb. An extrapolation and comparison with existing data showed that the fracture toughness of the small grain Nb metals at 4 K was expected to be similar to those at 173 K and 77 K. The results from optical photography at a low magnification and fractography by a scanning electron microscope were consistent with corresponding mechanical properties.« less

The Loss of Activating Transcription Factor 4 (ATF4) Reduces Bone Toughness and Fracture Toughness

PubMed Central

Makowski, Alexander J.; Uppuganti, Sasidhar; Waader, Sandra A.; Whitehead, Jack M.; Rowland, Barbara J.; Granke, Mathilde; Mahadevan-Jansen, Anita; Yang, Xiangli; Nyman, Jeffry S.

2014-01-01

Even though age-related changes to bone tissue affecting fracture risk are well characterized, only a few matrix-related factors have been identified as important to maintaining fracture resistance. As a gene critical to osteoblast differentiation, activating transcription factor 4 (ATF4) is possibly one of the seimportant factors. To test the hypothesis that the loss of ATF4 affects the fracture resistance of bone beyond bone mass and structure, we harvested bones from Atf4+/+ and Atf4−/− littermates at 8 and 20 weeks of age (n≥9 per group) for bone assessment across several length scales. From whole bone mechanical tests in bending, femurs from Atf4−/− mice were found to be brittle with reduced toughness and fracture toughness compared to femurs from Atf4+/+ mice. However, there were no differences in material strength and in tissue hardness, as determined by nanoindentation, between the genotypes, irrespective age. Tissue mineral density of the cortex at the point of loading as determined by micro-computed tomography was also not significantly different. However, by analyzing local composition by Raman Spectroscopy (RS), bone tissue of Atf4−/− mice was found to have higher mineral to collagen ratio compared to wild-type tissue, primarily at 20 weeks of age. From RS analysis of intact femurs at 2 orthogonal orientations relative to the polarization axis of the laser, we also found that the organizational-sensitive peak ratio, ν1 Phosphate per Amide I, changed to a greater extent upon bone rotation for Atf4-deficient tissue, implying bone matrix organization may contribute to the brittleness phenotype. Target genes of ATF4 activity are not only important to osteoblast differentiation but also maintaining bone toughness and fracture toughness. PMID:24509412

The loss of activating transcription factor 4 (ATF4) reduces bone toughness and fracture toughness.

PubMed

Makowski, Alexander J; Uppuganti, Sasidhar; Wadeer, Sandra A; Whitehead, Jack M; Rowland, Barbara J; Granke, Mathilde; Mahadevan-Jansen, Anita; Yang, Xiangli; Nyman, Jeffry S

2014-05-01

Even though age-related changes to bone tissue affecting fracture risk are well characterized, only a few matrix-related factors have been identified as important to maintaining fracture resistance. As a gene critical to osteoblast differentiation, activating transcription factor 4 (ATF4) is possibly one of these important factors. To test the hypothesis that the loss of ATF4 affects the fracture resistance of bone beyond bone mass and structure, we harvested bones from Atf4+/+ and Atf4-/- littermates at 8 and 20 weeks of age (n≥9 per group) for bone assessment across several length scales. From whole bone mechanical tests in bending, femurs from Atf4-/- mice were found to be brittle with reduced toughness and fracture toughness compared to femurs from Atf4+/+ mice. However, there were no differences in material strength and in tissue hardness, as determined by nanoindentation, between the genotypes, irrespective of age. Tissue mineral density of the cortex at the point of loading as determined by micro-computed tomography was also not significantly different. However, by analyzing local composition by Raman Spectroscopy (RS), bone tissue of Atf4-/- mice was found to have higher mineral to collagen ratio compared to wild-type tissue, primarily at 20 weeks of age. From RS analysis of intact femurs at 2 orthogonal orientations relative to the polarization axis of the laser, we also found that the organizational-sensitive peak ratio, ν1Phosphate per Amide I, changed to a greater extent upon bone rotation for Atf4-deficient tissue, implying bone matrix organization may contribute to the brittleness phenotype. Target genes of ATF4 activity are not only important to osteoblast differentiation but also in maintaining bone toughness and fracture toughness. Published by Elsevier Inc.

Bone toughness at the molecular scale: A model for fracture toughness using crosslinked osteopontin on synthetic and biogenic mineral substrates.

PubMed

Cavelier, S; Dastjerdi, A K; McKee, M D; Barthelat, F

2018-05-01

The most prominent structural components in bone are collagen and mineral. However, bone additionally contains a substantial amount of noncollagenous proteins (most notably of the SIBLING protein family), some of which may act as cohesive/adhesive "binders" for the composite hybrid collagen/mineral scaffolding, whether in the bulk phase of bone, or at its interfaces. One such noncollagenous protein - osteopontin (OPN) - appears to be critical to the deformability and fracture toughness of bone. In the present study, we used a reconstructed synthetic mineral-OPN-mineral interface, and a biogenic (natural tooth dentin) mineral/collagen-OPN-mineral/collagen interface, to measure the fracture toughness of OPN on mineralized substrates. We used this system to test the hypothesis that OPN crosslinking by the enzyme tissue transglutaminase 2 (TG2) that is found in bone enhances interfacial adhesion to increase the fracture toughness of bone. For this, we prepared double-cantilever beam substrates of synthetic pure hydroxyapatite mineral, and of narwhal dentin, and directly apposed them to one another under different intervening OPN/crosslinking conditions, and fracture toughness was tested using a miniaturized loading stage. The work-of-fracture of the OPN interface was measured for different OPN formulations (monomer vs. polymer), crosslinking states, and substrate composition. Noncrosslinked OPN provided negligible adhesion on pure hydroxyapatite, whereas OPN crosslinking (by the chemical crosslinker glutaraldehyde, and TG2 enzyme) provided strong interfacial adhesion for both hydroxyapatite and dentin using monomeric and polymeric OPN. Pre-coating of the substrate beams with monomeric OPN further improved the adhesive performance of the samples, likely by allowing effective binding of this nascent OPN form to mineral/matrix components, with this pre-attachment providing a protein layer for additional crosslinking between the substrates. Copyright © 2018 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

A novel protocol for generating intact, whole-head spider cephalothorax tissue sections.

PubMed

Long, Skye M

2018-04-01

The diversity of spider behavior and sensory systems provides an excellent opportunity for comparative studies of the relationship between the brain and behavior. However, the morphology of spiders poses a challenge for histologists since the spider cephalothorax contains heterogeneous tissues and has both tough external and internal sclerotized regions. Unlike the heads of insects, the cephalothorax is highly pressurized, which can cause tissues to shift during processing and can reduce tissue cohesion in thick sections. This work describes a novel protocol for producing thick whole-head sections for morphological study by softening the exoskeleton and stabilizing friable tissue, without freezing or dehydration. It also presents an effective whole-head DiI staining method that uses minimal dehydration and highlights neural structures.

Improving the toughness of ultrahigh strength steel

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Sato, Koji

2002-01-01

The ideal structural steel combines high strength with high fracture toughness. This dissertation discusses the toughening mechanism of the Fe/Co/Ni/Cr/Mo/C steel, AerMet 100, which has the highest toughness/strength combination among all commercial ultrahigh strength steels. The possibility of improving the toughness of this steel was examined by considering several relevant factors. Chapter 1 reviews the mechanical properties of ultrahigh strength steels and the physical metallurgy of AerMet 100. It also describes the fracture mechanisms of steel, i.e. ductile microvoid coalescence, brittle transgranular cleavage, and intergranular separation. Chapter 2 examines the strength-toughness relationship for three heats of AerMet 100. A wide variation of toughness is obtained at the same strength level. The toughness varies despite the fact that all heat fracture in the ductile fracture mode. The difference originates from the inclusion content. Lower inclusion volume fraction and larger inclusion spacing gives rise to a greater void growth factor and subsequently a higher fracture toughness. The fracture toughness value, JIc, is proportional to the particle spacing of the large non-metallic inclusions. Chapter 3 examines the ductile-brittle transition of AerMet 100 and the effect of a higher austenitization temperature, using the Charpy V-notch test. The standard heat treatment condition of AerMet 100 shows a gradual ductile-brittle transition due to its fine effective grain size. Austenitization at higher temperature increases the prior austenite grain size and packet size, leading to a steeper transition at a higher temperature. Both transgranular cleavage and intergranular separation are observed in the brittle fracture mode. Chapter 4 examines the effect of inclusion content, prior austenite grain size, and the amount of austenite on the strength-toughness relationship. The highest toughness is achieved by low inclusion content, small prior austenite grain size, and a small content of stable austenite. The low inclusion content increases the strain at the fracture. The reduction in prior austenite grain size prevents the fast unstable crack propagation by cleavage. And the stable austenite decreases the strength of the intergranular separation at the prior austenite grain boundary, which provides the stress relief at the crack tip.

Effects of fatigue induced damage on the longitudinal fracture resistance of cortical bone.

PubMed

Fletcher, Lloyd; Codrington, John; Parkinson, Ian

2014-07-01

As a composite material, cortical bone accumulates fatigue microdamage through the repetitive loading of everyday activity (e.g. walking). The accumulation of fatigue microdamage is thought to contribute to the occurrence of fragility fractures in older people. Therefore it is beneficial to understand the relationship between microcrack accumulation and the fracture resistance of cortical bone. Twenty longitudinally orientated compact tension fracture specimens were machined from a single bovine femur, ten specimens were assigned to both the control and fatigue damaged groups. The damaged group underwent a fatigue loading protocol to induce microdamage which was assessed via fluorescent microscopy. Following fatigue loading, non-linear fracture resistance tests were undertaken on both the control and damaged groups using the J-integral method. The interaction of the crack path with the fatigue induced damage and inherent toughening mechanisms were then observed using fluorescent microscopy. The results of this study show that fatigue induced damage reduces the initiation toughness of cortical bone and the growth toughness within the damage zone by three distinct mechanisms of fatigue-fracture interaction. Further analysis of the J-integral fracture resistance showed both the elastic and plastic component were reduced in the damaged group. For the elastic component this was attributed to a decreased number of ligament bridges in the crack wake while for the plastic component this was attributed to the presence of pre-existing fatigue microcracks preventing energy absorption by the formation of new microcracks.

Bone tissue heterogeneity is associated with fracture toughness: a polarization Raman spectroscopy study

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Makowski, Alexander J.; Granke, Mathilde; Uppuganti, Sasidhar; Mahadevan-Jansen, Anita; Nyman, Jeffry S.

2015-02-01

Polarization Raman Spectroscopy has been used to demonstrate microstructural features and collagen fiber orientation in human and mouse bone, concurrently measuring both organization and composition; however, it is unclear as to what extent these measurements explain the mechanical quality of bone. In a cohort of age and gender matched cadaveric cortical bone samples (23-101 yr.), we show homogeneity of both composition and structure are associated with the age related decrease in fracture toughness. 64 samples were machined into uniform specimens and notched for mechanical fracture toughness testing and polished for Raman Spectroscopy. Fingerprint region spectra were acquired on wet bone prior to mechanical testing by sampling nine different microstructural features spaced in a 750x750 μm grid in the region of intended crack propagation. After ASTM E1820 single edge notched beam fracture toughness tests, the sample was dried in ethanol and the osteonal-interstitial border of one osteon was samples in a 32x32 grid of 2μm2 pixels for two orthogonal orientations relative to the long bone axis. Standard peak ratios from the 9 separate microstructures show heterogeneity between structures but do not sufficiently explain fracture toughness; however, peak ratios from mapping highlight both lamellar contrast (ν1Phos/Amide I) and osteon-interstitial contrast (ν1Phos/Proline). Combining registered orthogonal maps allowed for multivariate analysis of underlying biochemical signatures. Image entropy and homogeneity metrics of single principal components significantly explain resistance to crack initiation and propagation. Ultimately, a combination of polarization content and multivariate Raman signatures allowed for the association of microstructural tissue heterogeneity with fracture resistance.

Material properties and fractography of an indirect dental resin composite

PubMed Central

Quinn, Janet B.; Quinn, George D.

2011-01-01

Objectives Determination of material and fractographic properties of a dental indirect resin composite material. Methods A resin composite (Paradigm, 3M-ESPE, MN) was characterized by strength, static elastic modulus, Knoop hardness, fracture toughness and edge toughness. Fractographic analyses of the broken bar surfaces was accomplished with a combination of optical and SEM techniques, and included determination of the type and size of the failure origins, and fracture mirror and branching constants. Results The flexure test mean strength ± standard deviation was 145 MPA ± 17 MPa, and edge toughness, Te, was 172 N/mm ±12 N/mm. Knoop hardness was load dependent, with a plateau at 0.99 GPa ± .02 GPa. Mirrors in the bar specimens were measured with difficulty, resulting in a mirror constant of approximately 2.6 MPa·m1/2. Fracture in the bar specimens initiated at equiaxed material flaws that had different filler concentrations that sometimes were accompanied by partial microcracks. Using the measured flaw sizes, which ranged from 35 µm to 100 µm in size, and estimates of the stress intensity shape factors, fracture toughness was estimated to be 1.1 MPa·m1/2 ± 0.2 MPa·m1/2. Significance Coupling the flexure tests with fractographic examination enabled identification of the intrinsic strength limiting flaws. The same techniques could be useful in determining if clinical restorations of similar materials fail from the same causes. The existence of a strong load-dependence of the Knoop hardness of the resin composite is not generally mentioned in the literature, and is important for material comparisons and wear evaluation studies. Finally, the edge toughness test was found promising as a quantitative measure of resistance to edge chipping, an important failure mode in this class of materials. PMID:20304478

Material properties and fractography of an indirect dental resin composite.

PubMed

Quinn, Janet B; Quinn, George D

2010-06-01

Determination of material and fractographic properties of a dental indirect resin composite material. A resin composite (Paradigm, 3M-ESPE, MN) was characterized by strength, static elastic modulus, Knoop hardness, fracture toughness and edge toughness. Fractographic analyses of the broken bar surfaces was accomplished with a combination of optical and SEM techniques, and included determination of the type and size of the failure origins, and fracture mirror and branching constants. The flexure test mean strength+/-standard deviation was 145+/-17 MPa, and edge toughness, T(e), was 172+/-12N/mm. Knoop hardness was load dependent, with a plateau at 0.99+/-0.02 GPa. Mirrors in the bar specimens were measured with difficulty, resulting in a mirror constant of approximately 2.6 MPa m(1/2). Fracture in the bar specimens initiated at equiaxed material flaws that had different filler concentrations that sometimes were accompanied by partial microcracks. Using the measured flaw sizes, which ranged from 35 to 100 microm in size, and using estimates of the stress intensity shape factors, fracture toughness was estimated to be 1.1+/-0.2 MPa m(1/2). Coupling the flexure tests with fractographic examination enabled identification of the intrinsic strength limiting flaws. The same techniques could be useful in determining if clinical restorations of similar materials fail from the same causes. The existence of a strong load-dependence of the Knoop hardness of the resin composite is not generally mentioned in the literature, and is important for material comparisons and wear evaluation studies. Finally, the edge toughness test was found promising as a quantitative measure of resistance to edge chipping, an important failure mode in this class of materials. Copyright (c) 2010 Academy of Dental Materials. Published by Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

Nanomechanical characterization of alumina coatings grown on FeCrAl alloy by thermal oxidation.

PubMed

Frutos, E; González-Carrasco, J L; Polcar, T

2016-04-01

This work studies the feasibility of using repetitive-nano-impact tests with a cube-corner tip and low loads for obtaining quantitative fracture toughness values in thin and brittle coatings. For this purpose, it will be assumed that the impacts are able to produce a cracking, similar to the pattern developed for the classical fracture toughness tests in bulk materials, and therefore, from the crack developed in the repetitive impacts it will be possible to evaluate the suitability of the classical indentation models (Anstins and Laugier) for measuring fracture toughness. However, the length of this crack has to be lower than 10% of the total coating thickness to avoid substrate contributions. For this reason, and in order to ensure a small plastic region localized at the origin of the crack tip, low load values (or small distance between the indenter tip and the surface) have to be used. In order to demonstrate the validity of this technique, repetitive-nano-impact will be done in a fine and dense oxide layer (α-Al2O3), which has been developed on the top of oxide dispersion strengthened (ODS) FeCrAl alloys (PM 2000) by thermal oxidation at elevated temperatures. Moreover, it will be shown how it is possible to know with each new impact the crack geometry evolution from Palmqvist crack to half-penny crack, being able to study the proper evolution of the different values of fracture toughness in terms of both indentation models and as a function of the strain rate, ε̇, decreasing. Thereby, fracture toughness values for α-Al2O3 layer decrease from ~4.40MPam , for high ϵ̇ value (10(3)s(-1)), to ~3.21MPam, for quasi-static ϵ̇ value (10(-3)s(-1)). On the other hand, ϵ̇ a new process to obtain fracture toughness values will be analysed, when the classical indentation models are not met. These values are typically found in the literature for bulk α-Al2O3, demonstrating the use of repetitive-nano-impact tests which not only provide qualitative information about fracture resistance of the materials but it also can be used to obtain quantitative information as fracture toughness values in the case of brittle materials. Copyright © 2016 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

Technical Letter Report on the Cracking of Irradiated Cast Stainless Steels with Low Ferrite Content

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Chen, Y.; Alexandreanu, B.; Natesan, K.

2014-11-01

Crack growth rate and fracture toughness J-R curve tests were performed on CF-3 and CF-8 cast austenite stainless steels (CASS) with 13-14% of ferrite. The tests were conducted at ~320°C in either high-purity water with low dissolved oxygen or in simulated PWR water. The cyclic crack growth rates of CF-8 were higher than that of CF-3, and the differences between the aged and unaged specimens were small. No elevated SCC susceptibility was observed among these samples, and the SCC CGRs of these materials were comparable to those of CASS alloys with >23% ferrite. The fracture toughness values of unirradiated CF-3more » were similar between unaged and aged specimens, and neutron irradiation decreased the fracture toughness significantly. The fracture toughness of CF-8 was reduced after thermal aging, and declined further after irradiation. It appears that while lowering ferrite content may help reduce the tendency of thermal aging embrittlement, it is not very effective to mitigate irradiation-induced embrittlement. Under a combined condition of thermal aging and irradiation, neutron irradiation plays a dominant role in causing embrittlement in CASS alloys.« less

Calculation for tensile strength and fracture toughness of granite with three kinds of grain sizes using three-point-bending test

PubMed Central

Yu, Miao; Wei, Chenhui; Niu, Leilei; Li, Shaohua; Yu, Yongjun

2018-01-01

Tensile strength and fracture toughness, important parameters of the rock for engineering applications are difficult to measure. Thus this paper selected three kinds of granite samples (grain sizes = 1.01mm, 2.12mm and 3mm), used the combined experiments of physical and numerical simulation (RFPA-DIP version) to conduct three-point-bending (3-p-b) tests with different notches and introduced the acoustic emission monitor system to analyze the fracture mechanism around the notch tips. To study the effects of grain size on the tensile strength and toughness of rock samples, a modified fracture model was established linking fictitious crack to the grain size so that the microstructure of the specimens and fictitious crack growth can be considered together. The fractal method was introduced to represent microstructure of three kinds of granites and used to determine the length of fictitious crack. It is a simple and novel method to calculate the tensile strength and fracture toughness directly. Finally, the theoretical model was verified by the comparison to the numerical experiments by calculating the nominal strength σn and maximum loads Pmax. PMID:29596422

Calculation for tensile strength and fracture toughness of granite with three kinds of grain sizes using three-point-bending test.

PubMed

Yu, Miao; Wei, Chenhui; Niu, Leilei; Li, Shaohua; Yu, Yongjun

2018-01-01

Tensile strength and fracture toughness, important parameters of the rock for engineering applications are difficult to measure. Thus this paper selected three kinds of granite samples (grain sizes = 1.01mm, 2.12mm and 3mm), used the combined experiments of physical and numerical simulation (RFPA-DIP version) to conduct three-point-bending (3-p-b) tests with different notches and introduced the acoustic emission monitor system to analyze the fracture mechanism around the notch tips. To study the effects of grain size on the tensile strength and toughness of rock samples, a modified fracture model was established linking fictitious crack to the grain size so that the microstructure of the specimens and fictitious crack growth can be considered together. The fractal method was introduced to represent microstructure of three kinds of granites and used to determine the length of fictitious crack. It is a simple and novel method to calculate the tensile strength and fracture toughness directly. Finally, the theoretical model was verified by the comparison to the numerical experiments by calculating the nominal strength σn and maximum loads Pmax.

Strength, Fracture Toughness, and Slow Crack Growth of Zirconia/alumina Composites at Elevated Temperature

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Choi, Sung R.; Bansal, Narottam P.

2003-01-01

Various electrolyte materials for solid oxide fuel cells were fabricated by hot pressing 10 mol% yttria-stabilized zirconia (10-YSZ) reinforced with two different forms of alumina particulates and platelets each containing 0 to 30 mol% alumina. Flexure strength and fracture toughness of platelet composites were determined as a function of alumina content at 1000 C in air and compared with those of particulate composites determined previously. In general, elevated-temperature strength and fracture toughness of both composite systems increased with increasing alumina content. For a given alumina content, flexure strength of particulate composites was greater than that of platelet composites at higher alumina contents (greater than or equal to 20 mol%), whereas, fracture toughness was greater in platelet composites than in particulate composites, regardless of alumina content. The results of slow crack growth (SCG) testing, determined at 1000 C via dynamic fatigue testing for three different composites including 0 mol% (10-YSZ matrix), 30 mol % particulate and 30 mol% platelet composites, showed that susceptibility to SCG was greatest with SCG parameter n = 6 to 8 for both 0 and 30 mol% particulate composites and was least with n = 33 for the 30 mol% platelet composite.

Investigation of moisture-induced embrittlement of iron aluminides. Interim report

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Castagna, A.; Stoloff, N.S.

Alloy FA-129 undergoes an increase in crack propagation rate and a loss of fracture toughness in moisture-bearing and hydrogen gas environments. A similar effect is seen on ductility of FA-129 in tensile tests. The embrittling effect in air is attributed to oxidation of aluminum in the alloy by water vapor to produce Al{sub 2}O{sub 3} and hydrogen gas. Alloy FAP-Y, which is disordered and contains only 16 a%Al is embrittled by hydrogen gas in a manner similar to that of FA-129. However, laboratory air had little effect on the crack growth rates, fracture toughness, or tensile ductility. The lower aluminummore » content apparently is insufficient to induce the Al-H{sub 2}O reaction. TEM and SEM analyses of microstructure and fracture surfaces were consistent with the change in fracture toughness with order and environment. Testing at elevated temperatures reduces crack growth rates in FA-129, and increases fracture toughness and ductility. This is consistent with the well documented peak in hydrogen embrittlement in structural alloys at or near room temperature. Elevated temperature affects the degree of embrittlement in a complex manner, possibly changing the rates of several of the processes involved.« less

2016 Accomplishments. Tritium aging studies on stainless steel. Forging process effects on the fracture toughness properties of tritium-precharged stainless steel

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Morgan, Michael J.

Forged austenitic stainless steels are used as the materials of construction for pressure vessels designed to contain tritium at high pressure. These steels are highly resistant to tritium-assisted fracture but their resistance can depend on the details of the forging microstructure. During FY16, the effects of forging strain rate and deformation temperature on the fracture toughness properties of tritium-exposed-and-aged Type 304L stainless steel were studied. Forgings were produced from a single heat of steel using four types of production forging equipment – hydraulic press, mechanical press, screw press, and high-energy-rate forging (HERF). Each machine imparted a different nominal strain ratemore » during the deformation. The objective of the study was to characterize the J-Integral fracture toughness properties as a function of the industrial strain rate and temperature. The second objective was to measure the effects of tritium and decay helium on toughness. Tritium and decay helium effects were measured by thermally precharging the as-forged specimens with tritium gas at 34.5 MPa and 350°C and aging for up to five years at -80°C to build-in decay helium prior to testing. The results of this study show that the fracture toughness properties of the as-forged steels vary with forging strain rate and forging temperature. The effect is largely due to yield strength as the higher-strength forgings had the lower toughness values. For non-charged specimens, fracture toughness properties were improved by forging at 871°C versus 816°C and Screw-Press forgings tended to have lower fracture toughness values than the other forgings. Tritium exposures reduced the fracture toughness values remarkably to fracture toughness values averaging 10-20% of as-forged values. However, forging strain rate and temperature had little or no effect on the fracture toughness after tritium precharging and aging. The result was confirmed by fractography which indicated that fracture modes in the tritium-exposed specimens were similar for all forgings. Another FY16 objective was to prepare fracture toughness specimens from Types 304L and 21-6-9 stainless steel weldments and heat-affected zones (HAZ) for tritium charging.« less

Enhancing Scalability and Efficiency of the TOUGH2_MP for LinuxClusters

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Zhang, Keni; Wu, Yu-Shu

2006-04-17

TOUGH2{_}MP, the parallel version TOUGH2 code, has been enhanced by implementing more efficient communication schemes. This enhancement is achieved through reducing the amount of small-size messages and the volume of large messages. The message exchange speed is further improved by using non-blocking communications for both linear and nonlinear iterations. In addition, we have modified the AZTEC parallel linear-equation solver to nonblocking communication. Through the improvement of code structuring and bug fixing, the new version code is now more stable, while demonstrating similar or even better nonlinear iteration converging speed than the original TOUGH2 code. As a result, the new versionmore » of TOUGH2{_}MP is improved significantly in its efficiency. In this paper, the scalability and efficiency of the parallel code are demonstrated by solving two large-scale problems. The testing results indicate that speedup of the code may depend on both problem size and complexity. In general, the code has excellent scalability in memory requirement as well as computing time.« less

Characteristic of retained austenite decomposition during tempering and its effect on impact toughness in SA508 Gr.3 steel

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Yan, Guanghua; Han, Lizhan; Li, Chuanwei; Luo, Xiaomeng; Gu, Jianfeng

2017-01-01

Retained austenite(RA) usually presents in the quenched Nuclear Pressure-Vessel SA508 Gr.3 steel. In the present work, the characteristic of RA decomposition and its effect on the impact toughness were investigated by microstructure observation, dilatometric experiments and Charpy impact tests. The results show that the RA transformed into martensite and bainite during tempering at 230 °C and 400 °C respectively, while mixture of long rod carbides and ferrite formed at 650 °C. The long rod carbides formed from RA decomposition decrease the critical cleavage stress for initiation of micro-cracks, and deteriorate the impact toughness of the steel. Pre-tempering at a low temperature such as 230 °C or 400 °C leading to the decomposition of RA into martensite or baintie can eliminate the deterioration of the toughness caused by direct decomposition into long rod carbides. The absorbed energy indicate that pre-tempering at 400 °C can drive dramatically improvement in the toughness of the steel.

Cross-Cultural Invariance of the Mental Toughness Inventory Among Australian, Chinese, and Malaysian Athletes: A Bayesian Estimation Approach.

PubMed

Gucciardi, Daniel F; Zhang, Chun-Qing; Ponnusamy, Vellapandian; Si, Gangyan; Stenling, Andreas

2016-04-01

The aims of this study were to assess the cross-cultural invariance of athletes' self-reports of mental toughness and to introduce and illustrate the application of approximate measurement invariance using Bayesian estimation for sport and exercise psychology scholars. Athletes from Australia (n = 353, Mage = 19.13, SD = 3.27, men = 161), China (n = 254, Mage = 17.82, SD = 2.28, men = 138), and Malaysia (n = 341, Mage = 19.13, SD = 3.27, men = 200) provided a cross-sectional snapshot of their mental toughness. The cross-cultural invariance of the mental toughness inventory in terms of (a) the factor structure (configural invariance), (b) factor loadings (metric invariance), and (c) item intercepts (scalar invariance) was tested using an approximate measurement framework with Bayesian estimation. Results indicated that approximate metric and scalar invariance was established. From a methodological standpoint, this study demonstrated the usefulness and flexibility of Bayesian estimation for single-sample and multigroup analyses of measurement instruments. Substantively, the current findings suggest that the measurement of mental toughness requires cultural adjustments to better capture the contextually salient (emic) aspects of this concept.

Experimental and Numerical Study on the Cracked Chevron Notched Semi-Circular Bend Method for Characterizing the Mode I Fracture Toughness of Rocks

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Wei, Ming-Dong; Dai, Feng; Xu, Nu-Wen; Liu, Jian-Feng; Xu, Yuan

2016-05-01

The cracked chevron notched semi-circular bending (CCNSCB) method for measuring the mode I fracture toughness of rocks combines the merits (e.g., avoidance of tedious pre-cracking of notch tips, ease of sample preparation and loading accommodation) of both methods suggested by the International Society for Rock Mechanics, which are the cracked chevron notched Brazilian disc (CCNBD) method and the notched semi-circular bend (NSCB) method. However, the limited availability of the critical dimensionless stress intensity factor (SIF) values severely hinders the widespread usage of the CCNSCB method. In this study, the critical SIFs are determined for a wide range of CCNSCB specimen geometries via three-dimensional finite element analysis. A relatively large support span in the three point bending configuration was considered because the fracture of the CCNSCB specimen in that situation is finely restricted in the notch ligament, which has been commonly assumed for mode I fracture toughness measurements using chevron notched rock specimens. Both CCNSCB and NSCB tests were conducted to measure the fracture toughness of two different rock types; for each rock type, the two methods produce similar toughness values. Given the reported experimental results, the CCNSCB method can be reliable for characterizing the mode I fracture toughness of rocks.

Pendulum impact resistance of tungsten fiber/metal matrix composites.

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Winsa, E. A.; Petrasek, D. W.

1972-01-01

The impact properties of copper, copper-10 nickel, and a superalloy matrix reinforced with tungsten fibers were studied. In most cases the following increased composite impact strength: increased fiber or matrix toughness, decreased fiber-matrix reaction, increased test temperature, hot working and heat treatment. Notch sensitivity was reduced by increasing fiber or matrix toughness. The effect of fiber content depended on the relative toughness of the fibers and matrix. Above 530 K a 60 volume per cent superalloy matrix composite had a greater impact strength than a turbine blade superalloy, whereas below 530 K a hot worked 56 volume per cent composite had a greater impact strength than the superalloy.

An in-situ study in SEM of delamination in several graphite/epoxy composite material systems

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Bradley, W. L.

1986-01-01

A three point bend fixture compatible with the current loading stage for the Scanning Electron Microscope was designed and fabricated. End-notched flexure tests were run on several materials. Work to date was on AS4/3502, T6T145/F155, and T6T145/F185. Fracture toughness was measured. Fracture of neat resin specimens was begun. The decrease in delaminatin fracture toughness, compared to neat resin toughness, due to rigid fiber filler and interlaminar failure is addressed. An experimental program was designed to try to determine the proper interpretatin for apparent microcracking in neat resin specimens.

BWRVIP-140NP: BWR Vessel and Internals Project Fracture Toughness and Crack Growth Program on Irradiated Austenitic Stainless Steel

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Gilman, J

2005-03-15

To prepare for this project, EPRI and BWRVIP conducted a workshop at Ponte Vedra Beach, Florida during February 19-21, 2003 (EPRI report 1007822). Attendees were invited to exchange relevant information on the effects of irradiation on austenitic materials in light water reactors and to produce recommendations for further work. EPRI reviewed the data, recommendations, and conclusions derived from the workshop and developed prioritized test matrices defining new data needs. Proposals were solicited, and selected proposals are the basis for the program described in this report. Results The planned test matrix for fracture toughness testing includes 21 tests on 5 materials.

Fracture temperature and flaw growth in nitronic 40 at cryogenic temperatures

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Domack, M. S.

1984-01-01

The fracture resistance and fatigue response of Armco Nitronic 40 austenitic stainless steel were evaluated under cryogenic conditions. Tensile, fracture toughness and fatigue crack growth properties were measured at -275 F. The tensile yield strength was approximately 120 ksi and the fracture toughness was estimated to be 350 ksi-in /2 on the basis of fracture toughness measurements. Testing was conducted to evaluate the behavior of a simulated section of the wing of the Pathfinder 1 model subject to a load and temperature history typical of that for testing in the National Transonic Facility. The wing section model incorporated a proposed brazing technique for pressure-transducer attachment. The simulated wing section performed satisfactorily at stress levels of nearly 60 percent of the material yield strength. The brazing technique proved to be an effective method of transducer attachment under conditions of high stress levels and large temperature excursions.

Effect of Growth Rate on Elevated Temperature Plastic Flow and Room Temperature Fracture Toughness of Directionally Solidified NiAl-31Cr-3Mo

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Whittenberger, J. Daniel; Raj, S. V.; Locci, I. E.; Salem, J. A.

1999-01-01

The eutectic system Ni-33Al-31Cr-3Mo was directionally solidified at rates ranging from 7.6 to 508 mm/h. Samples were examined for microstructure and alloy chemistry, compression tested at 1200 and 1300 K, and subjected to room temperature fracture toughness measurements. Lamellar eutectic grains were formed at 12.7 mm/h; however cellular structures with a radial eutectic pattern developed at faster growth rates. Elevated temperature compression testing between 10(exp -4) to 10(exp -7)/s did not reveal an optimum growth condition, nor did any single growth condition result in a significant fracture toughness advantage. The mechanical behavior, taken together, suggests that Ni-33Al-31Cr-3Mo grown at rates from 25.4 to 254 mm/h will have nominally equivalent properties.

Evaluation of the Fracture Toughness of a SMSS Subjected to Common Heat Treatment Cycles in an Aggressive Environment

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Pieta, G.; Leite, R.; Kwietniewski, C.; Clarke, T.; Strohaecker, T.

2010-12-01

Supermartensitic stainless steels (SMSS) are an alternative to corrosion-prone carbon steels and expensive duplex stainless steels in offshore tubing applications for the oil and gas industry. Due to their differentiated alloying, SMSS exhibit superior toughness, corrosion resistance, and weldability properties when compared with another viable option, conventional martensitic stainless steels. However, when cathodically protected in a seawater environment they can be susceptible to embrittlement due to hydrogen charging. In the present study, SMSS samples were removed from deep water pipelines and their fracture toughness in the as-received condition and with different heat treatments was evaluated. Tests were carried out in air and in harsh environmental and loading conditions, which were ensured by subjecting specimens to cathodic overprotection, simulating effects seen in structures with complex geometries, and to incremental step loads in a synthetic seawater environment, thus favoring hydrogen diffusion to the precrack tip. The fracture surfaces of the specimens were analyzed in order to identify hydrogen-induced embrittlement and fracture toughness values of specimens tested in air were compared to values obtained in environment-assisted experiments. The influence of microstructure was evaluated by control of the retained austenite and δ-ferrite contents of the specimens. The results show a significant drop in the fracture toughness of steel in the studied environment, with a fracture mode which is clearly more brittle and dependent on microstructural characteristics of the samples.

Material Property Characterization of AS4/VRM-34 Textile Laminates

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Grenoble, Ray W.; Johnston, William M

2013-01-01

Several material properties (modulus, strengths, and fracture toughness) of a textile composite have been evaluated to provide input data to analytical models of Pultruded Rod Stiffened Efficient Unitized Structure (PRSEUS). The material system is based on warp-knitted preforms of AS4 carbon fibers and VRM-34 epoxy resin, which have been processed via resin infusion and oven curing. Tensile, compressive, shear, and fracture toughness properties have been measured at ambient and elevated temperatures. All specimens were tested in as-fabricated (dry) condition. Specimens were tested with and without through-thickness stitching.

Fracture toughness evaluation of select advanced replacement alloys for LWR core internals

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Tan, Lizhen; Chen, Xiang

Life extension of the existing nuclear reactors imposes irradiation of high fluences to structural materials, resulting in significant challenges to the traditional reactor materials such as type 304 and 316 stainless steels. Advanced alloys with superior radiation resistance will increase safety margins, design flexibility, and economics for not only the life extension of the existing fleet but also new builds with advanced reactor designs. The Electric Power Research Institute (EPRI) teamed up with Department of Energy (DOE) to initiate the Advanced Radiation Resistant Materials (ARRM) program, aiming to develop and test degradation resistant alloys from current commercial alloy specifications bymore » 2021 to a new advanced alloy with superior degradation resistance in light water reactor (LWR)-relevant environments by 2024. Fracture toughness is one of the key engineering properties required for core internal materials. Together with other properties, which are being examined such as high-temperature steam oxidation resistance, radiation hardening, and irradiation-assisted stress corrosion cracking resistance, the alloys will be down-selected for neutron irradiation study and comprehensive post-irradiation examinations. According to the candidate alloys selected under the ARRM program, ductile fracture toughness of eight alloys was evaluated at room temperature and the LWR-relevant temperatures. The tested alloys include two ferritic alloys (Grade 92 and an oxide-dispersion-strengthened alloy 14YWT), two austenitic stainless steels (316L and 310), four Ni-base superalloys (718A, 725, 690, and X750). Alloy 316L and X750 are included as reference alloys for low- and high-strength alloys, respectively. Compact tension specimens in 0.25T and 0.2T were machined from the alloys in the T-L and R-L orientations according to the product forms of the alloys. This report summarizes the final results of the specimens tested and analyzed per ASTM Standard E1820. Unlike the ferritic alloys showing slight decreases (Grade 92) or significant decreases (14YWT) in fracture toughness at elevated temperatures, the fracture toughness of the austenitic stainless steels and Ni-base superalloys were not strongly dependent upon the test temperatures. The fracture toughness of the alloys at the LWR-relevant temperatures was estimated by averaging the toughness values within 250– 350°C, which suggested the fracture toughness of the alloys in a descending order as 316L (752±98 MPa√m), 310 (513±66 MPa√m), 718A (313±43 MPa√m), 690 (267±48 MPa√m), 725 (218±55 MPa√m), X750 (145±16 MPa√m), Grade 92 (112±12 MPa√m), and 14YWT (63±3 MPa√m). Tearing modulus of the alloys was analyzed in the meantime, which were not strongly dependent upon the test temperatures. The high-strength alloys 718A, 725, X750, and 14YWT had the lowest tearing modulus, ranging from ~45 to ~7. Alloy 690 exhibited the highest tearing modulus on the order of 450, followed by 316L and 310 on the order of 260. Grade 92 had a noticeably lower tearing modulus on the order of 70.« less

Observations in Fracture Toughness Testing of Glasses and Optical Ceramics

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Salem, Jon

2017-01-01

Fracture toughness is a critical structural design parameter and an excellent metrics to rank materials. Itdetermines fracture strength by way of the flaws, both inherent and induced, and defines the endpoint of the slow crackgrowth curve. The fracture toughness of structural and optical ceramics, and glasses as measured by several techniques is compared. When good metrology is employed, the results are very comparable with two exceptions: materials exhibiting crack growth resistance and those with a low SCG exponents. For materials with R-curves, the result is a function of extension and can be minimized with short cracks. For materials with low SCG exponents, such as glasses, elimination of the corrosive media andor increasing the stress intensity rate minimizes effects. A summary of values is given, and it appears that highly modified glasses exhibit lower fracture toughness and slow crack growth exponent than high purity glasses such as fused silica.

Clip gage attachment for frictionless measurement of displacement during high-temperature mechanical testing

DOEpatents

Alexander, David J.

1994-01-01

An attachment for placement between a test specimen and a remote clip gage extensometer providing improved fracture toughness tests of materials at elevated temperature. Using a cylindrical tube and axial rod in new relationship, the device transfers the displacement signal of the fracture toughness test specimen directly to a clip gage extensometer located outside the high temperature furnace. Virtually frictionless operation is assured by having the test specimen center one end of the rod in one end of the tube, while the clip gage extensometer arms center the other end of the rod in the other end of the tube. By providing positive control over both ends of both rod and tube, the attachment may be operated in orientations other than vertical.

Reliability of fracture appearance measurement in the Charpy test

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Dixon, B.F.

1994-12-31

Despite conventional wisdom, the Charpy fracture appearance transition curve does not always coincide with the energy transition curve. Furthermore, unlike Charpy energy, fracture appearance tells how a specimen failed. It can therefore be used to meaningfully relate the results of Charpy testing to results of other toughness tests which may employ different geometries and loading rates. In order to address the question of consistency, a set of 20 specimens was prepared and used in a `round robin` survey. Results showed that agreement was greatest when operators are experienced, samples are close to fracture appearance transition, and simple, two-dimensional diagrams aremore » sued for assessment. It was also found that certain inconsistencies exist between various assessment techniques for Charpy fracture appearance. As a part of this work, fracture appearance curves were compared to energy impact curves for the Charpy test and a similar test, the Schnadt K{sub o} test, which uses a sharp pressed notch. It was found that energy and fracture appearance transition may differ by as much as 50{degrees}C in the Charpy test while the two curves coincided in the Schnadt test. In series of toughness tests on 132 steels, the average difference between Charpy energy transition and Schnade K{sub o} energy transition was about 27{degrees}C. This is believed to represent the difference in toughness between blunt and sharp notches in Charpy size specimens.« less

Effects of stress and mental toughness on burnout and depressive symptoms: A prospective study with young elite athletes.

PubMed

Gerber, Markus; Best, Simon; Meerstetter, Fabienne; Walter, Marco; Ludyga, Sebastian; Brand, Serge; Bianchi, Renzo; Madigan, Daniel J; Isoard-Gautheur, Sandrine; Gustafsson, Henrik

2018-05-18

To examine in a sample of young elite athletes (a) the presence of clinically relevant symptoms of burnout and depression, and (b) a possible interaction of perceived stress and mental toughness in the prediction of burnout and depressive symptoms. 6-month prospective study. A representative sample of 257 young elite athletes (M=16.82years, SD=1.44, 36% females) was recruited in North-Western Switzerland. 197 athletes were followed-up across a 6-month period. Burnout was assessed with the Shirom-Melamed Burnout Measure (SMBM), and depression with the 9-item depression module of the Patient Health Questionnaire (PHQ). Values of ≥4.40 (SMBM) and >14 (PHQ-9) were considered indicative of clinically relevant burnout or depression. Stress perceptions were assessed with the Perceived Stress Scale (PSS), and mental toughness with the Mental Toughness Questionnaire (MTQ). Hierarchical regression analyses were used to test stress-buffering effects. The percentage of athletes with clinically relevant levels of burnout and depressive symptoms was 12% and 9%, respectively. Both cross-sectional and prospective analyses showed that compared to participants with low mental toughness, those with higher mental toughness scores reported significantly fewer mental health issues, when exposed to high stress. By contrast, when stress levels were low, mental toughness was unrelated to psychological health complaints. About every tenth young elite athlete reported burnout or depressive symptoms of potential clinical relevance. While high perceived stress was associated with increased psychological health complaints, mental toughness was able to off-set some of the negative consequences resulting from high stress exposure. Copyright © 2018 Sports Medicine Australia. Published by Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

Tensile, Compression, Open-Hole Compression and Double Cantilever Beam Fracture Toughness Testing of Multiple NASA Langley Research Center Composite Materials

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Adams, Donald F.

1999-01-01

The attached data summarizes the work performed by the Composite Materials Research Group at the University of Wyoming funded by the NASA LaRC Research Grant NAG-1-1294. The work consisted primarily of tension, compression, open-hole compression and double cantilever beam fracture toughness testing performed an a variety of NASA LaRC composite materials. Tests were performed at various environmental conditions and pre-conditioning requirements. The primary purpose of this work was to support the LaRC material development efforts. The data summaries are arranged in chronological order from oldest to newest.

Compliance calibration of the short rod chevron-notch specimen for fracture toughness testing of brittle materials

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Bubsey, R. T.; Pierce, W. S.; Shannon, J. L., Jr.; Munz, D.

1982-01-01

The short rod chevron-notch specimen has the advantages of (1) crack development at the chevron tip during the early stage of test loading, and (2) convenient calculation of plane-strain fracture toughness from the maximum test load and from a calibration factor which depends only on the specimen geometry and manner of loading. For generalized application, calibration of the specimen over a range of specimen proportions and chevron-notch configurations is necessary. Such was the objective of this investigation, wherein calibration of the short rod specimen was made by means of experimental compliance measurements converted into dimensionless stress intensity factor coefficients.

Self-Expanding, Tough Biodegradable Elastomers for Wound Stasis

DTIC Science & Technology

2015-08-06

laparotomy and small bowel was retracted to identify the abdominal aorta and vena cava. The peritoneumwas incised along a 3 cm length of the right external...Resuscitation protocol Duration Mortality Blood loss Sondeen et al. [7] Open 4.4 mm perforation of abdominal aorta 100% 300 mL/min IV lactated Ringer...g/kg Control 3. 50% 15 g/kg Kheirabadi et al. [6] Open 4.4 mm perforation of infrarenal aorta 100% Lactated Ringers, 3 pretreatment blood volume at

Microstructure, Pitting Corrosion Resistance and Impact Toughness of Duplex Stainless Steel Underwater Dry Hyperbaric Flux-Cored Arc Welds

PubMed Central

Hu, Yu; Shen, Xiao-Qin; Wang, Zhong-Min

2017-01-01

Duplex stainless steel multi-pass welds were made at 0.15 MPa, 0.45 MPa, and 0.75 MPa pressure, simulating underwater dry hyperbaric welding by the flux-cored arc welding (FCAW) method, with welds of normal pressure as a benchmark. The purpose of this work was to estimate the effect of ambient pressure on the microstructure, pitting corrosion resistance and impact toughness of the weld metal. The microstructure measurement revealed that the ferrite content in the weld metal made at 0.45 MPa is the lowest, followed by that of 0.75 MPa and 0.15 MPa. The analysis of potentiodynamic polarization tests at 30 °C and 50 °C demonstrated that the pitting corrosion resistance depends on the phases of the lower pitting resistance equivalent numbers (PREN), secondary austenite and ferrite. The weld metal made at 0.45 MPa had the best resistance to pitting corrosion at 30 °C and 50 °C with the highest PRENs of secondary austenite and ferrite. The weld metal made at 0.15 MPa displayed the lowest pitting corrosion resistance at 30 °C with the lowest PREN of secondary austenite, while the weld metal made at 0.75 MPa was the most seriously eroded after being tested at 50 °C for the lowest PREN of ferrite, with large cluster pits seen in ferrite at 50 °C. The impact tests displayed a typical ductile-brittle transition because of the body-centered cubic (BCC) structure of the ferrite when the test temperature was lowered. All the weld metals met the required value of 34 J at −40 °C according to the ASTM A923. The highest ferrite content corresponded to the worst impact toughness, but the highest toughness value did not correspond to the greatest austenite content. With the decreasing of the test temperature, the drop value of absorbed energy was correlated to the ferrite content. Additionally, in this work, the weld metal made at 0.45 MPa had the best combined properties of pitting resistance and impact toughness. PMID:29258262

Microstructure, Pitting Corrosion Resistance and Impact Toughness of Duplex Stainless Steel Underwater Dry Hyperbaric Flux-Cored Arc Welds.

PubMed

Hu, Yu; Shi, Yong-Hua; Shen, Xiao-Qin; Wang, Zhong-Min

2017-12-18

Duplex stainless steel multi-pass welds were made at 0.15 MPa, 0.45 MPa, and 0.75 MPa pressure, simulating underwater dry hyperbaric welding by the flux-cored arc welding (FCAW) method, with welds of normal pressure as a benchmark. The purpose of this work was to estimate the effect of ambient pressure on the microstructure, pitting corrosion resistance and impact toughness of the weld metal. The microstructure measurement revealed that the ferrite content in the weld metal made at 0.45 MPa is the lowest, followed by that of 0.75 MPa and 0.15 MPa. The analysis of potentiodynamic polarization tests at 30 °C and 50 °C demonstrated that the pitting corrosion resistance depends on the phases of the lower pitting resistance equivalent numbers (PREN), secondary austenite and ferrite. The weld metal made at 0.45 MPa had the best resistance to pitting corrosion at 30 °C and 50 °C with the highest PRENs of secondary austenite and ferrite. The weld metal made at 0.15 MPa displayed the lowest pitting corrosion resistance at 30 °C with the lowest PREN of secondary austenite, while the weld metal made at 0.75 MPa was the most seriously eroded after being tested at 50 °C for the lowest PREN of ferrite, with large cluster pits seen in ferrite at 50 °C. The impact tests displayed a typical ductile-brittle transition because of the body-centered cubic (BCC) structure of the ferrite when the test temperature was lowered. All the weld metals met the required value of 34 J at -40 °C according to the ASTM A923. The highest ferrite content corresponded to the worst impact toughness, but the highest toughness value did not correspond to the greatest austenite content. With the decreasing of the test temperature, the drop value of absorbed energy was correlated to the ferrite content. Additionally, in this work, the weld metal made at 0.45 MPa had the best combined properties of pitting resistance and impact toughness.

A New Test Method for Determining the Strength and Fracture Toughness of Cement Mortar and Concrete

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Wang, Jy-An John; Liu, Ken C; Naus, Dan J

2010-01-01

The Spiral Notch Torsion Fracture Toughness Test (SNTT) was developed recently to determine the intrinsic fracture toughness (KIC) of structural materials. The SNTT system operates by applying pure torsion to uniform cylindrical specimens with a notch line that spirals around the specimen at a 45 a pitch. KIC values are obtained with the aid of a three-dimensional finite-element computer code, TOR3D-KIC. The SNTT method is uniquely suitable for testing a wide variety of materials used extensively in pressure vessel and piping structural components and weldments. Application of the method to metallic, ceramic, and graphite materials has been demonstrated. One importantmore » characteristic of SNTT is that neither a fatigue precrack or a deep notch are required for the evaluation of brittle materials, which significantly reduces the sample size requirement. In this paper we report results for a Portland cement-based mortar to demonstrate applicability of the SNTT method to cementitious materials. The estimated KIC of the tested mortar samples with compressive strength of 34.45 MPa was found to be 0.19 MPa m^(1/2).« less

Fracture Toughness of Z3CN20.09M Cast Stainless Steel with Long-Term Thermal Aging

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Yu, Weiwei; Yu, Dunji; Gao, Hongbo; Xue, Fei; Chen, Xu

2017-09-01

Accelerated thermal aging tests were performed at 400 °C for nearly 18,000 h on Z3CN20.09M cast stainless steel which was used for primary coolant pipes of nuclear power plants. A series of Charpy impact tests were conducted on Z3CN20.09M after different long-term thermal aging time. The test results indicated that the Charpy impact energy of Z3CN20.09M cast stainless steel decreased rapidly at an early stage and then almost saturated after thermal aging of 10,000 h. Furthermore, J-resistance curves were measured for CT specimens of longitudinal and circumferential pipe orientations. It showed that there was no obvious difference in the fracture characteristics of Z3CN20.09M in different sampling directions. In addition, the observed stretch zone width (SZW) revealed that the value of initiation fracture toughness J SZW was significantly lower than that of fracture toughness J IC, indicating a low actual crack initiation energy due to long-term thermal aging.

Brittle crack arrestability of thick steel plate welds in large structure

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

An, Gyu Baek; Park, Joon Sik

2011-10-01

Recently, there has been such a critical issue in shipbuilding industry that much larger and stronger ships are required to develop oil and gas in the Arctic region. Attention has been paid to obtaining high strength, good toughness at low temperature, and good weldability. An experimental study was performed to evaluate the brittle crack arrest toughness value (Kca) and brittle crack arrest method of welded joints using EH40 grade steel with a thickness of 80 mm. The test specimens were made by both flux cored arc welding (FCAW) and combined welding (EGW+FCAW) processes. Temperature gradient ESSO test was performed to measure the Kca of the base metal. Also, a constant temperature (-10 °C) ESSO test was performed to establish a brittle crack arrest method using high toughness welding consumable with real structural specimens. The research aims in this study were to investigate the effect of joint design and welding consumable for the crack arrestability of thick steel plates using EH40 grade shipbuilding steel of straight block joint weld line with two kinds of welding processes.

Delamination onset in polymeric composite laminates under thermal and mechanical loads

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Martin, Roderick H.

1991-01-01

A fracture mechanics damage methodology to predict edge delamination is described. The methodology accounts for residual thermal stresses, cyclic thermal stresses, and cyclic mechanical stresses. The modeling is based on the classical lamination theory and a sublaminate theory. The prediction methodology determines the strain energy release rate, G, at the edge of a laminate and compares it with the fatigue and fracture toughness of the composite. To verify the methodology, isothermal static tests at 23, 125, and 175 C and tension-tension fatigue tests at 23 and 175 C were conducted on laminates. The material system used was a carbon/bismaleimide, IM7/5260. Two quasi-isotropic layups were used. Also, 24 ply unidirectional double cantilever beam specimens were tested to determine the fatigue and fracture toughness of the composite at different temperatures. Raising the temperature had the effect of increasing the value of G at the edge for these layups and also to lower the fatigue and fracture toughness of the composite. The static stress to edge delamination was not affected by temperature but the number of cycles to edge delamination decreased.

Studies on the effects of titanate and silane coupling agents on the performance of poly (methyl methacrylate)/barium titanate denture base nanocomposites.

PubMed

Elshereksi, Nidal W; Ghazali, Mariyam J; Muchtar, Andanastuti; Azhari, Che H

2017-01-01

This study aimed to fabricate and characterise silanated and titanated nanobarium titanate (NBT) filled poly(methyl methacrylate) (PMMA) denture base composites and to evaluate the behaviour of a titanate coupling agent (TCA) as an alternative coupling agent to silane. The effect of filler surface modification on fracture toughness was also studied. Silanated, titanated and pure NBT at 5% were incorporated in PMMA matrix. Neat PMMA matrix served as a control. NBT was sonicated in MMA prior to mixing with the PMMA. Curing was carried out using a water bath at 75°C for 1.5h and then at 100°C for 30min. NBT was characterised via Fourier transform-infrared spectroscopy (FTIR), Transmission Electron Microscopy (TEM) and Brunauer-Emmett-Teller (BET) analysis before and after surface modification. The porosity and fracture toughness of the PMMA nanocomposites (n=6, for each formulation and test) were also evaluated. NBT was successfully functionalised by the coupling agents. The TCA exhibited the lowest percentage of porosity (0.09%), whereas silane revealed 0.53% porosity. Statistically significant differences in fracture toughness were observed among the fracture toughness values of the tested samples (p<0.05). While the fracture toughness of untreated samples was reduced by 8%, an enhancement of 25% was achieved after titanation. In addition, the fracture toughness of the titanated samples was higher than the silanated ones by 10%. Formation of a monolayer on the surface of TCA enhanced the NBT dispersion, however agglomeration of silanated NBT was observed due to insufficient coverage of NBT surface. Such behaviour led to reducing the porosity level and improving fracture toughness of titanated NBT/PMMA composites. Thus, TCA seemed to be more effective than silane. Minimising the porosity level could have the potential to reduce fungus growth on denture base resin to be hygienically accepTable Such enhancements obtained with Ti-NBT could lead to promotion of the composites' longevity. Copyright © 2016 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

TOUGH Simulations of the Updegraff's Set of Fluid and Heat Flow Problems

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Moridis, G.J.; Pruess

1992-11-01

The TOUGH code [Pruess, 1987] for two-phase flow of water, air, and heat in penneable media has been exercised on a suite of test problems originally selected and simulated by C. D. Updegraff [1989]. These include five 'verification' problems for which analytical or numerical solutions are available, and three 'validation' problems that model laboratory fluid and heat flow experiments. All problems could be run without any code modifications (*). Good and efficient numerical performance, as well as accurate results were obtained throughout. Additional code verification and validation problems from the literature are briefly summarized, and suggestions are given for propermore » applications of TOUGH and related codes.« less

Evaluation of fracture toughness of human dentin using elastic-plastic fracture mechanics.

PubMed

Yan, Jiahau; Taskonak, Burak; Platt, Jeffrey A; Mecholsky, John J

2008-01-01

Dentin, the mineralized tissue forming the bulk of the tooth, lies between the enamel and the pulp chamber. It is a rich source of inspiration for designing novel synthetic materials due to its unique microstructure. Most of the previous studies investigating the fracture toughness of dentin have used linear-elastic fracture mechanics (LEFM) that ignores plastic deformation and could underestimate the toughness of dentin. With the presence of collagen (approximately 30% by volume) aiding the toughening mechanisms in dentin, we hypothesize that there is a significant difference between the fracture toughness estimated using LEFM (Kc) and elastic-plastic fracture mechanics (EPFM) (KJc). Single-edge notched beam specimens with in-plane (n=10) and anti-plane (n=10) parallel fractures were prepared following ASTM standard E1820 and tested in three-point flexure. KJc of the in-plane parallel and anti-plane parallel specimens were found to be 3.1 and 3.4 MPa m 1/2 and Kc were 2.4 and 2.5 MPa m 1/2, respectively. The fracture toughness estimated based on KJc is significantly greater than that estimated based on Kc (32.5% on average; p<0.001). In addition, KJc of anti-plane parallel specimens is significantly greater than that of in-plane parallel specimens. We suggest that, in order to critically evaluate the fracture toughness of human dentin, EPFM should be employed.

Clip gage attachment for frictionless measurement of displacement during high-temperature mechanical testing

DOEpatents

Alexander, D.J.

1994-01-04

An attachment for placement between a test specimen and a remote clip gage extensometer providing improved fracture toughness tests of materials at elevated temperature is described. Using a cylindrical tube and axial rod in new relationship, the device transfers the displacement signal of the fracture toughness test specimen directly to a clip gage extensometer located outside the high temperature furnace. Virtually frictionless operation is assured by having the test specimen center one end of the rod in one end of the tube, while the clip gage extensometer arms center the other end of the rod in the other end of the tube. By providing positive control over both ends of both rod and tube, the attachment may be operated in orientations other than vertical. 1 figure.

Fracture Toughness to Understand Stretch-Flangeability and Edge Cracking Resistance in AHSS

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Casellas, Daniel; Lara, Antoni; Frómeta, David; Gutiérrez, David; Molas, Sílvia; Pérez, Lluís; Rehrl, Johannes; Suppan, Clemens

2017-01-01

The edge fracture is considered as a high risk for automotive parts, especially for parts made of advanced high strength steels (AHSS). The limited ductility of AHSS makes them more sensitive to the edge damage. The traditional approaches, such as those based on ductility measurements or forming limit diagrams, are unable to predict this type of fractures. Thus, stretch-flangeability has become an important formability parameter in addition to tensile and formability properties. The damage induced in sheared edges in AHSS parts affects stretch-flangeability, because the generated microcracks propagate from the edge. Accordingly, a fracture mechanics approach may be followed to characterize the crack propagation resistance. With this aim, this work addresses the applicability of fracture toughness as a tool to understand crack-related problems, as stretch-flangeability and edge cracking, in different AHSS grades. Fracture toughness was determined by following the essential work of fracture methodology and stretch-flangeability was characterized by means of hole expansions tests. Results show a good correlation between stretch-flangeability and fracture toughness. It allows postulating fracture toughness, measured by the essential work of fracture methodology, as a key material property to rationalize crack propagation phenomena in AHSS.

Distinguishing psychological characteristics of expert cricket batsmen.

PubMed

Weissensteiner, Juanita R; Abernethy, Bruce; Farrow, Damian; Gross, John

2012-01-01

This paper sought to determine the psychological characteristics and skills that are fundamental to batting success in the sport of cricket. Following on from the findings of an earlier qualitative investigation which suggested that a favourable mix of psychological attributes and skills are critical to high performance in batting (Weissensteiner et al.(10)), adult-aged batsmen of two different skill levels (highly skilled n=11; lesser skilled n=10) completed a battery of psychological tests that included measures of mental toughness (Mental Toughness Inventory), perfectionism (Multidimensional Perfectionism Scale), coping ability (Athletic Coping Skills Inventory-28), and optimism (Attributional Styles Questionnaire). Contrary to the research hypothesis, it was found that the highly skilled batsmen were only distinguishable from batsmen of lesser skill by their higher degree of global mental toughness. The skilled batsmen scored significantly higher on mental toughness dimensions relating to motivation (Personal Bests, Task Value and Commitment), coping skill (Perseverance) and self-belief (Potential). If mental toughness can be reliably predicted at an earlier age, it may be an attribute worthy of inclusion in future talent identification and development programs. Copyright © 2011 Sports Medicine Australia. Published by Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

Mechanical properties and radiopacity of experimental glass-silica-metal hybrid composites.

PubMed

Jandt, Klaus D; Al-Jasser, Abdullah M O; Al-Ateeq, Khalid; Vowles, Richard W; Allen, Geoff C

2002-09-01

Experimental glass-silica-metal hybrid composites (polycomposites) were developed and tested mechanically and radiographically in this fundamental pilot study. To determine whether mechanical properties of a glass-silica filled two-paste dental composite based on a Bis-GMA/polyglycol dimethacrylate blend could be improved through the incorporation of titanium (Ti) particles (particle size ranging from 1 to 3 microm) or silver-tin-copper (Ag-Sn-Cu) particles (particle size ranging from 1 to 50 microm) we measured the diametral tensile strength, fracture toughness and radiopacity of five composites. The five materials were: I, the original unmodified composite (control group); II, as group I but containing 5% (wt/wt) of Ti particles; III, as group II but with Ti particles treated with 4-methacryloyloxyethyl trimellitate anhydride (4-META) to promote Ti-resin bonding; IV, as group I but containing 5% (wt/wt) of Ag-Sn-Cu particles; and V, as group IV but with the metal particles treated with 4-META. Ten specimens of each group were tested in a standard diametral tensile strength test and a fracture toughness test using a single-edge notched sample design and five specimens of each group were tested using a radiopacity test. The diametral tensile strength increased statistically significantly after incorporation of Ti treated with 4-META, as tested by ANOVA (P=0.004) and Fisher's LSD test. A statistically significant increase of fracture toughness was observed between the control group and groups II, III and V as tested by ANOVA (P=0.003) and Fisher's LSD test. All other groups showed no statistically significant increase in diametral tensile strength and fracture toughness respectively when compared to their control groups. No statistically significant increase in radiopacity was found between the control group and the Ti filled composite, whereas a statistically significant increase in radiopacity was found between the control group and the Ag-Sn-Cu filled composite as tested by ANOVA (P=0.000) and Fisher's LSD procedure. The introduction of titanium and silver-tin-copper fillers has potential as added components in composites to provide increased mechanical strength and radiopacity, for example for use in core materials.

Effect of processing induced particle alignment on the fracture toughness and fracture behavior of multiphase dental ceramics.

PubMed

Gonzaga, Carla C; Okada, Cristina Yuri; Cesar, Paulo F; Miranda, Walter G; Yoshimura, Humberto N

2009-11-01

To investigate the processing induced particle alignment on fracture behavior of four multiphase dental ceramics (one porcelain, two glass-ceramics and a glass-infiltrated-alumina composite). Disks (Ø12 mm x 1.1mm-thick) and bars (3 mm x 4 mm x 20 mm) of each material were processed according to manufacturer instructions, machined and polished. Fracture toughness (K(Ic)) was determined by the indentation strength method using 3-point bending and biaxial flexure fixtures for the fracture of bars and disks, respectively. Microstructural and fractographic analyses were performed with scanning electron microscopy, energy dispersive spectroscopy and X-ray diffraction. The isotropic microstructure of the porcelain and the leucite-based glass-ceramic resulted in similar fracture toughness values regardless of the specimen geometry. On the other hand, materials containing second-phase particles with high aspect ratio (lithium disilicate glass-ceramic and glass-infiltrated-alumina composite) showed lower fracture toughness for disk specimens compared to bars. For the lithium disilicate glass-ceramic disks, it was demonstrated that the occurrence of particle alignment during the heat-pressing procedure resulted in an unfavorable pattern that created weak microstructural paths during the biaxial test. For the glass-infiltrated-alumina composite, the microstructural analysis showed that the large alumina platelets tended to align their large surfaces perpendicularly to the direction of particle deposition during slip casting of green preforms. The fracture toughness of dental ceramics with anisotropic microstructure should be determined by means of biaxial testing, since it results in lower values.

DISFRAC Version 2.0 Users Guide

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Cochran, Kristine B; Erickson, Marjorie A; Williams, Paul T

2013-01-01

DISFRAC is the implementation of a theoretical, multi-scale model for the prediction of fracture toughness in the ductile-to-brittle transition temperature (DBTT) region of ferritic steels. Empirically-derived models of the DBTT region cannot legitimately be extrapolated beyond the range of existing fracture toughness data. DISFRAC requires only tensile properties and microstructural information as input, and thus allows for a wider range of application than empirical, toughness data dependent models. DISFRAC is also a framework for investigating the roles of various microstructural and macroscopic effects on fracture behavior, including carbide particle sizes, grain sizes, strain rates, and material condition. DISFRAC s novelmore » approach is to assess the interaction effects of macroscopic conditions (geometry, loading conditions) with variable microstructural features on cleavage crack initiation and propagation. The model addresses all stages of the fracture process, from microcrack initiation within a carbide particle, to propagation of that crack through grains and across grain boundaries, finally to catastrophic failure of the material. The DISFRAC procedure repeatedly performs a deterministic analysis of microcrack initiation and propagation within a macroscopic crack plastic zone to calculate a critical fracture toughness value for each microstructural geometry set. The current version of DISFRAC, version 2.0, is a research code for developing and testing models related to cleavage fracture and transition toughness. The various models and computations have evolved significantly over the course of development and are expected to continue to evolve as testing and data collection continue. This document serves as a guide to the usage and theoretical foundations of DISFRAC v2.0. Feedback is welcomed and encouraged.« less

Study of fracture toughness and bend test morphologies of HVOF sprayed Cr3C2-25% NiCr coating after heat treatment

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Shrivastava, Sharad; Upadhyaya, Rohit

2018-04-01

Majority of the industrial components are subjected to high temperature exposure, where crack propagation occurs due to shear failure. The paper involves the study of the fracture toughness of heat treated Cr3C2-NiCr coating at three different service temperatures (750°C, 850°C, and 950°C for 1-hour aging) using indentation techniques to measure the crack resistance of the coating. At 750°C and 850°C, the coating cracked at the bend area, but not spalled. At 950°C, the coating spalled and delaminated from the substrate indicating poor adhesion after prolonged exposure. The influence of heat treatment on the fracture toughness and adhesion properties of the Cr3C2-25%NiCr coating were also investigated. The high temperature exposure at 950°C, resulted in a shear failure of the coating due to the presence of splat contraction. The increase in temperature increases the fracture toughness KIC of the coating, with the decrease in hardness. It was observed that the oxidation levels enhanced on the top layer of the coating, which acted like a core region for crack initiation at 950°C resulting in shear failure during bend test.

Measurement of fracture toughness of metallic materials produced by additive manufacturing

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Quénard, O.; Dorival, O.; Guy, Ph.; Votié, A.; Brethome, K.

2018-04-01

This study focuses on the microstructure and mechanical properties of metallic materials produced by additive layer manufacturing (ALM), especially the laser beam melting process. The influence of the specimen orientation during the ALM process and that of two post-build thermal treatments were investigated. The identified metal powder is Ti-6Al-4V (titanium base). Metallographic analysis shows their effects on the microstructure of the metals. Mechanical experiments involving tensile tests as well as toughness tests were performed according to ASTM (American Society for Testing and Materials) norms. The results show that the main influence is that of the thermal treatments; however the manufacturing stacking direction may lead to some anisotropy in the mechanical properties.

2015 Accomplishments-Tritium aging studies on stainless steel. Effects of hydrogen isotopes, crack orientation, and specimen geometry on fracture toughness

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Morgan, Michael J.

This study reports on the effects of hydrogen isotopes, crack orientation, and specimen geometry on the fracture toughness of stainless steels. Fracture toughness variability was investigated for Type 21-6-9 stainless steel using the 7K0004 forging. Fracture toughness specimens were cut from the forging in two different geometric configurations: arc shape and disc shape. The fracture toughness properties were measured at ambient temperature before and after exposure to hydrogen gas and compared to prior studies. There are three main conclusions that can be drawn from the results. First, the fracture toughness properties of actual reservoir forgings and contemporary heats of steelmore » are much higher than those measured in earlier studies that used heats of steel from the 1980s and 1990s and forward extruded forgings which were designed to simulate reservoir microstructures. This is true for as-forged heats as well as forged heats exposed to hydrogen gas. Secondly, the study confirms the well-known observation that cracks oriented parallel to the forging grain flow will propagate easier than those oriented perpendicular to the grain flow. However, what was not known, but is shown here, is that this effect is more pronounced, particularly after hydrogen exposures, when the forging is given a larger upset. In brick forgings, which have a relatively low amount of upset, the fracture toughness variation with specimen orientation is less than 5%; whereas, in cup forgings, the fracture toughness is about 20% lower than that forging to show how specimen geometry affects fracture toughness values. The American Society for Testing Materials (ASTM) specifies minimum specimen section sizes for valid fracture toughness values. However, sub-size specimens have long been used to study tritium effects because of the physical limitation of diffusing hydrogen isotopes into stainless steel at mild temperatures so as to not disturb the underlying forged microstructure. This study shows that fracture toughness values of larger specimens are higher and more representative of the material’s fracture behavior in a fully constrained tritium reservoir. The toughness properties measured for sub-size specimens were about 65-75% of the values for larger specimens. While the data from sub-size specimens are conservative, they may be overly so. The fracture toughness properties from sub-size specimens are valuable in that they can be used for tritium effects studies and show the same trends and alloy differences as those seen from larger specimen data. Additional work is planned, including finite element modeling, to see if sub-size specimen data could be adjusted in some way to be more closely aligned with the actual material behavior in a fully constrained pressure vessel.« less

The influence of composition and location on the toughness of human atherosclerotic femoral plaque tissue.

PubMed

Cunnane, E M; Barrett, H E; Kavanagh, E G; Mongrain, R; Walsh, M T

2016-02-01

The toughness of femoral atherosclerotic tissue is of pivotal importance to understanding the mechanism of luminal expansion during cutting balloon angioplasty (CBA) in the peripheral vessels. Furthermore, the ability to relate this parameter to plaque composition, pathological inclusions and location within the femoral vessels would allow for the improvement of existing CBA technology and for the stratification of patient treatment based on the predicted fracture response of the plaque tissue to CBA. Such information may lead to a reduction in clinically observed complications, an improvement in trial results and an increased adoption of the CBA technique to reduce vessel trauma and further endovascular treatment uptake. This study characterises the toughness of atherosclerotic plaque extracted from the femoral arteries of ten patients using a lubricated guillotine cutting test to determine the critical energy release rate. This information is related to the location that the plaque section was removed from within the femoral vessels and the composition of the plaque tissue, determined using Fourier Transform InfraRed spectroscopy, to establish the influence of location and composition on the toughness of the plaque tissue. Scanning electron microscopy (SEM) is employed to examine the fracture surfaces of the sections to determine the contribution of tissue morphology to toughness. Toughness results exhibit large inter and intra patient and location variance with values ranging far above and below the toughness of healthy porcine arterial tissue (Range: 1330-3035 for location and 140-4560J/m(2) for patients). No significant difference in mean toughness is observed between patients or location. However, the composition parameter representing the calcified tissue content of the plaque correlates significantly with sample toughness (r=0.949, p<0.001). SEM reveals the presence of large calcified regions in the toughest sections that are absent from the least tough sections. Regression analysis highlights the potential of employing the calcified tissue content of the plaque as a preoperative tool for predicting the fracture response of a target lesion to CBA (R(2)=0.885, p<0.001). This study addresses a gap in current knowledge regarding the influence of plaque location, composition and morphology on the toughness of human femoral plaque tissue. Such information is of great importance to the continued improvement of endovascular treatments, particularly cutting balloon angioplasty (CBA), which require experimentally derived data as a framework for assessing clinical cases and advancing medical devices. This study identifies that femoral plaque tissue exhibits large inter and intra patient and location variance regarding tissue toughness. Increasing calcified plaque content is demonstrated to correlate significantly with increasing toughness. This highlights the potential for predicting target lesion toughness which may lead to an increased adoption of the CBA technique and also further the uptake of endovascular treatment. Copyright © 2015 Acta Materialia Inc. Published by Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

The effect of microstructure and strength on the fracture toughness of an 18 Ni, 300 grade maraging steel

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Psioda, J. A.; Low, J. R., Jr.

1975-01-01

A 300 grade maraging steel was chosen as a vehicle by which to understand the inverse relationship between strength and toughness in high strength alloys such as the 18 Ni maraging steels. The 18 Ni, 300 grade maraging material was a commercial grade consumable-electrode, vacuum arc remelted heat obtained in the form of forged and annealed plate. The matrix contained a population of second-phase impurity inclusions which was a product of the casting and hot working processes. These inclusions did not change with subsequent precipitation hardening. Changes in microstructure resulting in strength increases were brought about by variations in aging temperature and time. Maximum strength was attained in the 300 grade maraging steel by aging at 427 C (800 F) for 100 hours. Tensile, fatigue precracked Charpy impact, and plane-strain fracture toughness tests were performed at room temperature, 20 C (68 F). With increasing strength the fracture toughness decreases as smaller and smaller inclusions act as sites for void initiation.

Study of Damage and Fracture Toughness Due to Influence of Creep and Fatigue of Commercially Pure Copper by Monotonic and Cyclic Indentation

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Ghosh, Sabita; Prakash, Raghu V.

2013-01-01

Fracture toughness is the ability of a component containing a flow to resist fracture. In the current study, the Ball indentation (BI) test technique, which is well acknowledged as an alternative approach to evaluate mechanical properties of materials due to its semi-nondestructive, fast, and high accurate qualities is used to estimate damage and the fracture toughness for copper samples subjected to varying levels of creep and fatigue. The indentation fracture toughness shows the degradation of Cu samples when they are subjected to different creep conditions. Axial fatigue cycling increases the strength at the mid-gauge section compared to other regions of the samples due to initial strain hardening. The advancement of indentation depth with indentation fatigue cycles experiences transient stage, i.e., jump in indentation depth has been observed, which may be an indication of failure and followed by a steady state with almost constant depth propagation with indentation cycles.

Fracture toughness of Alloy 690 and EN52 weld in air and water

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Brown, C.M.; Mills, W.J.

1999-06-01

The effect of low and high temperature water with high hydrogen on the fracture toughness of Alloy 690 and its weld, EN52, was characterized using elastic-plastic J{sub IC} methodology. While both materials display excellent fracture resistance in air and elevated temperature (>93 C) water, a dramatic degradation in toughness is observed in 54 C water. The loss of toughness is associated with a hydrogen-induced intergranular cracking mechanism where hydrogen is picked up from the water. Comparison of the cracking behavior in low temperature water with that for hydrogen-precharged specimens tested in air indicates that the critical local hydrogen content requiredmore » to cause low temperature embrittlement is on the order of 120 to 160 ppm. Loading rate studies show that the cracking resistance is significantly improved at rates above ca. 1000 MPa{radical}m/h because there is insufficient time to produce grain boundary embrittlement. Electron fractographic examinations were performed to correlate cracking behavior with microstructural features and operative fracture mechanics.« less

Fracture toughness of alloy 690 and EN52 welds in air and water

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Brown, C. M.; Mills, W. J.

2002-06-01

The effect of low- and high-temperature water with high hydrogen on the fracture toughness of alloy 690 and its weld, EN52, was characterized using elastic-plastic J IC methodology. While both materials display excellent fracture resistance in air and elevated-temperature (>93 °C) water, a dramatic degradation in toughness is observed in 54 °C water. The loss of toughness is associated with a hydrogen-induced intergranular cracking mechanism, where hydrogen is picked up from the water. Comparison of the cracking behavior in low-temperature water with that for hydrogen-precharged specimens tested in air indicates that the critical local hydrogen content required to cause low-temperature embrittlement is on the order of 120 to 160 ppm. Loading-rate studies show that cracking resistance is improved at rates above ˜ 1000 MPa √m/h, because there is insufficient time to produce grain-boundary embrittlement. Electron fractographic examinations were performed to correlate cracking behavior with microstructural features and operative fracture mechanisms.

A review of the effect of a/W ratio on fracture toughness (II) —experimental investigation in LEFM

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Li, Qing-Fen; Fu, Yu-Dong; Xu, Xiao-Xue

2005-06-01

In part I of this series, experimental investigation in EPFM (elastic-plastic fracture mechanics) had been discussed. In this paper, experimental investigation in LEFM (linear elastic fracture mechanics) is given. Fracture toughness tests had been carried out on three different strength steels, using both through-cracked specimens with different a/W ratio and semi-elliptical cracked specimens with variable crack size and shape. Results show that the fracture toughness K IC increases with decreasing a/W when a/W<0.3 for three-point-bend specimens, and that for a/W>0.3, it is independent of a/W. Shallow crack specimens, both through-cracked and surface-cracked, gave markedly higher values than deeply notched specimens. However, the effect of crack shape on fracture toughness is negligible. Results also show that the LEFM approach to fracture is not tenable for design stresses where a c is often very small, far less than 2.5(K IC/σ y )2.

An Effective Modal Approach to the Dynamic Evaluation of Fracture Toughness of Quasi-Brittle Materials

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Ferreira, L. E. T.; Vareda, L. V.; Hanai, J. B.; Sousa, J. L. A. O.; Silva, A. I.

2017-05-01

A modal dynamic analysis is used as the tool to evaluate the fracture toughness of concrete from the results of notched-through beam tests. The dimensionless functions describing the relation between the frequencies and specimen geometry used for identifying the variation in the natural frequency as a function of crack depth is first determined for a 150 × 150 × 500-mm notched-through specimen. The frequency decrease resulting from the propagating crack is modeled through a modal/fracture mechanics approach, leading to determination of an effective crack length. This length, obtained numerically, is used to evaluate the fracture toughness of concrete, the critical crack mouth opening displacements, and the brittleness index proposed. The methodology is applied to tests performed on high-strength concrete specimens. The frequency response for each specimen is evaluated before and after each crack propagation step. The methodology is then validated by comparison with results from the application of other methodologies described in the literature and suggested by RILEM.

Effect of nano/micro B4C and SiC particles on fracture properties of aluminum 7075 particulate composites under chevron-notch plane strain fracture toughness test

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Morovvati, M. R.; Lalehpour, A.; Esmaeilzare, A.

2016-12-01

Reinforcing aluminum with SiC and B4C nano/micro particles can lead to a more efficient material in terms of strength and light weight. The influence of adding these particles to an aluminum 7075 matrix is investigated using chevron-notch fracture toughness test method. The reinforcing factors are type, size (micro/nano), and weight percent of the particles. The fracture parameters are maximum load, notch opening displacement, the work up to fracture and chevron notch plane strain fracture toughness. The findings demonstrate that addition of micro and nano size particles improves the fracture properties; however, increasing the weight percent of the particles leads to increase of fracture properties up to a certain level and after that due to agglomeration of the particles, the improvement does not happen for both particle types and size categories. Agglomeration of particles at higher amounts of reinforcing particles results in improper distribution of particles and reduction in mechanical properties.

On the toughness scatter in low alloy C-Mn steel samples fabricated using wire arc additive manufacturing

DOE PAGES

Sridharan, Niyanth S.; Noakes, Mark W.; Nycz, Andrzej; ...

2017-12-06

Low alloy carbon manganese (C-Mn) steel builds were fabricated using a wire based additive manufacturing system developed at Oak Ridge National Laboratory. Specimens were fabricated in the X,Y and Z direction and detailed mechanical testing was performed. The mechanical testing results showed a significant scatter in tensile ductility and significant variation in Charpy toughness. Further detailed microstructure characterization showed significant microstructural heterogeneity in builds fabricated in each direction. The scatter in mechanical properties was then rationalized based on the microstructural observations and the underlying changes in the local heat transfer conditions. Lastly, the results indicate that when fabricating parts usingmore » C-Mn low alloy steel welds the process parameters and tool path should be chosen such that the cooling rate from 800 °C to 500 °C is greater than 30 s to avoid formation of martensite austenite (MA) phases, which leads to toughness reductions.« less

Preliminary report on tests of tensile specimens with a part-through surface notch for a filament wound graphite/epoxy material

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Harris, C. E.; Morris, D. H.

1985-01-01

The behavior of tensile coupons with surface notches of various semi-elliptical shapes were evaluated for specimens obtained from a filament wound graphite/epoxy cylinder. The quasi-static test results, in some instances, are inadequate for defining complete trend curves and the interpretive analysis is considered to be preliminary. Specimens with very shallow notches were observed to be notch insensitive and the unnotched strength from these specimens was determined to be 54.97 Ksi. The failure strain of the laminate was found to be 1.328%. Specimens with deeper notches were sensitive to notch depth, notch aspect ratio, and specimen width. Using the unnotched strength of 54.97 Ksi and Poe's general toughness parameter, the fracture toughness was estimated to be 27.2 Ksi square root of In. Isotropic linear elastic fracture mechanics together with the estimated fracture toughness correctly predicted the influence of notch depth, aspect ratio, and specimen finitewidth.

Effect of strain rate and notch geometry on tensile properties and fracture mechanism of creep strength enhanced ferritic P91 steel

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Pandey, Chandan; Mahapatra, M. M.; Kumar, Pradeep; Saini, N.

2018-01-01

Creep strength enhanced ferritic (CSEF) P91 steel were subjected to room temperature tensile test for quasi-static (less than 10-1/s) strain rate by using the Instron Vertical Tensile Testing Machine. Effect of different type of notch geometry, notch depth and angle on mechanical properties were also considered for different strain rate. In quasi-static rates, the P91 steel showed a positive strain rate sensitivity. On the basis of tensile data, fracture toughness of P91 steel was also calculated numerically. For 1 mm notch depth (constant strain rate), notch strength and fracture toughness were found to be increased with increase in notch angle from 45° to 60° while the maximum value attained in U-type notch. Notch angle and notch depth has found a minute effect on P91 steel strength and fracture toughness. The fracture surface morphology was studied by field emission scanning electron microscopy (FESEM).

On the toughness scatter in low alloy C-Mn steel samples fabricated using wire arc additive manufacturing

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Sridharan, Niyanth S.; Noakes, Mark W.; Nycz, Andrzej

Low alloy carbon manganese (C-Mn) steel builds were fabricated using a wire based additive manufacturing system developed at Oak Ridge National Laboratory. Specimens were fabricated in the X,Y and Z direction and detailed mechanical testing was performed. The mechanical testing results showed a significant scatter in tensile ductility and significant variation in Charpy toughness. Further detailed microstructure characterization showed significant microstructural heterogeneity in builds fabricated in each direction. The scatter in mechanical properties was then rationalized based on the microstructural observations and the underlying changes in the local heat transfer conditions. Lastly, the results indicate that when fabricating parts usingmore » C-Mn low alloy steel welds the process parameters and tool path should be chosen such that the cooling rate from 800 °C to 500 °C is greater than 30 s to avoid formation of martensite austenite (MA) phases, which leads to toughness reductions.« less

Effect of Embedded Piezoelectric Sensors on Fracture Toughness and Fatigue Resistance of Composite Laminates Under Mode I Loading

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Murri, Gretchen B.

2006-01-01

Double-cantilevered beam (DCB) specimens of a glass/epoxy composite material with embedded piezoelectric sensors were tested both statically and under fatigue loading to determine the effect of the embedded material on the Mode I fracture toughness and fatigue resistance compared to baseline data without the embedded elements. A material known as LaRC-Macrofiber Composite (LaRC-MFC (TradeMark)), or MFC, was embedded at the midplane of the specimen during the layup. Specimens were manufactured with the embedded MFC material either at the loaded end of the specimen to simulate an initial delamination; or with the MFC material located at the delaminating interface, with a Teflon film at the loaded end to simulate an initial delamination. There were three types of specimens with the embedded material at the delaminating interface: co-cured with no added adhesive; cured with a paste adhesive applied to the embedded element; or cured with a film adhesive added to the embedded material. Tests were conducted with the sensors in both the passive and active states. Results were compared to baseline data for the same material without embedded elements. Interlaminar fracture toughness values (G(sub Ic)) for the passive condition showed little change when the MFC was at the insert end. Passive results varied when the MFC was at the delaminating interface. For the co-cured case and with the paste adhesive, G(sub Ic) decreased compared to the baseline toughness, whereas, for the film adhesive case, G(sub Ic) was significantly greater than the baseline toughness, but the failure was always catastrophic. When the MFC was in the active state, G(sub Ic) was generally lower compared to the passive results. Fatigue tests showed little effect of the embedded material whether it was active or passive compared to baseline values.

Reinforcing effect of glass-fiber mesh on complete dentures in a test model with a simulated oral mucosa.

PubMed

Yu, Sang-Hui; Oh, Seunghan; Cho, Hye-Won; Bae, Ji-Myung

2017-11-01

Studies that evaluated the strength of complete dentures reinforced with glass-fiber mesh or metal mesh on a cast with a simulated oral mucosa are lacking. The purpose of this in vitro study was to compare the mechanical properties of maxillary complete dentures reinforced with glass-fiber mesh with those of metal mesh in a new test model, using a simulated oral mucosa. Complete dentures reinforced with 2 types of glass-fiber mesh, SES mesh (SES) and glass cloth (GC) and metal mesh (metal) were fabricated. Complete dentures without any reinforcement were prepared as a control (n=10). The complete dentures were located on a cast with a simulated oral mucosa, and a load was applied on the posterior artificial teeth bilaterally. The fracture load, elastic modulus, and toughness of a complete denture were measured using a universal testing machine at a crosshead speed of 5 mm/min. The fracture load and elastic modulus were analyzed using 1-way analysis of variance, and the toughness was analyzed with the Kruskal-Wallis test (α=.05). The Tukey multiple range test was used as a post hoc test. The fracture load and toughness of the SES group was significantly higher than that of the metal and control groups (P<.05) but not significantly different from that of the GC group. The elastic modulus of the metal group was significantly higher than that of the control group (P<.05), and no significant differences were observed in the SES and GC groups. Compared with the control group, the fracture load and toughness of the SES and GC groups were higher, while those of the metal group were not significantly different. Copyright © 2017 Editorial Council for the Journal of Prosthetic Dentistry. Published by Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

Shear Strength and Interfacial Toughness Characterization of Sapphire-Epoxy Interfaces for Nacre-Inspired Composites.

PubMed

Behr, Sebastian; Jungblut, Laura; Swain, Michael V; Schneider, Gerold A

2016-10-12

The common tensile lap-shear test for adhesive joints is inappropriate for brittle substrates such as glasses or ceramics where stress intensifications due to clamping and additional bending moments invalidate results. Nevertheless, bonding of glasses and ceramics is still important in display applications for electronics, in safety glass and ballistic armor, for dental braces and restoratives, or in recently developed bioinspired composites. To mechanically characterize adhesive bondings in these fields nonetheless, a novel approach based on the so-called Schwickerath test for dental sintered joints is used. This new method not only matches data from conventional analysis but also uniquely combines the accurate determination of interfacial shear strength and toughness in one simple test. The approach is verified for sapphire-epoxy joints that are of interest for bioinspired composites. For these, the procedure not only provides quantitative interfacial properties for the first time, it also exemplarily suggests annealing of sapphire at 1000 °C for 10 h for mechanically and economically effective improvements of the interfacial bond strength and toughness. With increases of strength and toughness from approximately 8 to 29 MPa and from 2.6 to 35 J/m 2 , respectively, this thermal modification drastically enhances the properties of unmodified sapphire-epoxy interfaces. At the same time, it is much more convenient than wet-chemical approaches such as silanization. Hence, besides the introduction of a new testing procedure for adhesive joints of brittle or expensive substrates, a new and facile annealing process for improvements of the adhesive properties of sapphire is suggested and quantitative data for the mechanical properties of sapphire-epoxy interfaces that are common in synthetic nacre-inspired composites are provided for the first time.

Correlation of Toughness between H-Plate and Charpy Impact Tests

DTIC Science & Technology

1959-09-01

thermal cycles having peak temperatures in or near the range of critical transformation temperatures. Notch sensitivity in these regions has been...21- In their recent work the transition temperatures of heat-affected-zone struc- tures produced by thermal cycles having peak temperatures in the...gradient of thermal cycles associated with welding is too complex to have been included in the scope of this report. The superior toughness of the Ni

Fatigue and Fracture of Polycrystalline Silicon and Diamond MEMS at Room and Elevated Temperatures

DTIC Science & Technology

2006-12-01

amorphous diamond-like carbon (ta-C) and polycrystalline silicon ( polysilicon ) for microelectromechanical systems (MEMS). Polysilicon and ta-C test...toughness were obtained, many of them for the first time. Compared to polysilicon , ta-C was found to have superior mechanical properties: Its fracture...toughness and strength were 3.5 times and two times that of polysilicon , respectively. Its elastic modulus was 4.5 times that of polysilicon and its

Resin blending for toughness in balloon films

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Farr, M. P.; Harrison, I. R.

1993-01-01

The influence of chain architecture on toughness is examined by testing blends of HDPE with different types of low density PEs. The LDPE and LLDPE used have reported similar molecular weights, and densities. Two structural factors differentiate these polymers, long chain branching is peculiar to LDPE, and the short chain branching distribution of the two polymers are different. LDPE has branches which are evenly distributed among all chains. In contrast, the short chain branches in LLDPE are distributed heterogeneously. LLDPE and ULDPE have similar branch distributions but, ULDPE has a higher average number of branches per 1000 carbons and consequently a lower density. The effect which these structural differences have on mechanical properties can be used to investigate which parameters control toughness in PE materials.

Standard test evaluation of graphite fiber/resin matrix composite materials for improved toughness

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Chapman, Andrew J.

1984-01-01

Programs sponsored by NASA with the commercial transport manufacturers to develop a technology data base are required to design and build composite wing and fuselage structures. To realize the full potential of composite structures in these strength critical designs, material systems having improved ductility and interlaminar toughness are being sought. To promote systematic evaluation of new materials, NASA and the commercial transport manufacturers have selected and standardized a set of five common tests. These tests evaluate open hole tension and compression performance, compression performance after impact at an energy level of 20 ft-lb, and resistance to delamination. Ten toughened resin matrix/graphite fiber composites were evaluated using this series of tests, and their performance is compared with a widely used composite system.

Fracture Toughness, Mechanical Property, And Chemical Characterization Of A Critical Modification To The NASA SLS Solid Booster Internal Material System

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Pancoast, Justin; Garrett, William; Moe, Gulia

2015-01-01

A modified propellant-liner-insulation (PLI) bondline in the Space Launch System (SLS) solid rocket booster required characterization for flight certification. The chemical changes to the PLI bondline and the required additional processing have been correlated to mechanical responses of the materials across the bondline. Mechanical properties testing and analyses included fracture toughness, tensile, and shear tests. Chemical properties testing and analyses included Fourier transform infrared (FTIR) spectroscopy, cross-link density, high-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC), gas chromatography (GC), gel permeation chromatography (GPC), and wave dispersion X-ray fluorescence (WDXRF). The testing identified the presence of the expected new materials and found the functional bondline performance of the new PLI system was not significantly changed from the old system.

Optimization of Experimental Conditions of the Pulsed Current GTAW Parameters for Mechanical Properties of SDSS UNS S32760 Welds Based on the Taguchi Design Method

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Yousefieh, M.; Shamanian, M.; Saatchi, A.

2012-09-01

Taguchi design method with L9 orthogonal array was implemented to optimize the pulsed current gas tungsten arc welding parameters for the hardness and the toughness of super duplex stainless steel (SDSS, UNS S32760) welds. In this regard, the hardness and the toughness were considered as performance characteristics. Pulse current, background current, % on time, and pulse frequency were chosen as main parameters. Each parameter was varied at three different levels. As a result of pooled analysis of variance, the pulse current is found to be the most significant factor for both the hardness and the toughness of SDSS welds by percentage contribution of 71.81 for hardness and 78.18 for toughness. The % on time (21.99%) and the background current (17.81%) had also the next most significant effect on the hardness and the toughness, respectively. The optimum conditions within the selected parameter values for hardness were found as the first level of pulse current (100 A), third level of background current (70 A), first level of % on time (40%), and first level of pulse frequency (1 Hz), while they were found as the second level of pulse current (120 A), second level of background current (60 A), second level of % on time (60%), and third level of pulse frequency (5 Hz) for toughness. The Taguchi method was found to be a promising tool to obtain the optimum conditions for such studies. Finally, in order to verify experimental results, confirmation tests were carried out at optimum working conditions. Under these conditions, there were good agreements between the predicted and the experimental results for the both hardness and toughness.

Evaluation of weldments in type 21-6-9 stainless steel for compact ignition tokamak structural applications, phase 1

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Alexander, D. J.; Goodwin, G. M.; Bloom, E. E.

1991-06-01

Primary design considerations for the Compact Ignition Tokamak toroidal field-coil cases are yield strength and toughness in the temperature range from 77 to 300 K. Type 21-6-9 stainless steel, also still known by its original Armco Steel Company trade name Nitronic 40, is the proposed alloy for this application. It has high yield strength and usually adequate base metal toughness, but weldments in thick sections have not been adequately characterized in terms of mechanical properties or hot-cracking propensity. In this study, weldability of the alloy in heavy sections and the mechanical properties of the resultant welds were investigated including tensile yield strength and Charpy V-notch toughness at 77 K and room temperature. Weldments were made in four different base metals using seven different filler metals. None of the weldments showed any indication of hot-cracking problems. All base metals, including weldment heat-affected zones, were found to have adequate strength and impact toughness at both test temperatures. Weld metals, on the other hand, except ERNiCr-3 and ENiCrFe-3, had impact toughnesses of less than 67 J at 77 K. Inconel 82 had an average weld metal impact toughness of over 135 J at 77 K, and although its strength at 77 K is less than that of type 21-6-9 base metal, at this point it is considered to be the first-choice filler metal. Phase 2 of this program will concentrate on composition refinement and process/procedure optimization for the generic ERNiCr-3 composition and will generate a design data base for base and weld metal, including tensile, fracture toughness, and crack growth rate data.

Thio-urethanes improve properties of dual-cured composite cements.

PubMed

Bacchi, A; Dobson, A; Ferracane, J L; Consani, R; Pfeifer, C S

2014-12-01

This study aims at modifying dual-cure composite cements by adding thio-urethane oligomers to improve mechanical properties, especially fracture toughness, and reduce polymerization stress. Thiol-functionalized oligomers were synthesized by combining 1,3-bis(1-isocyanato-1-methylethyl)benzene with trimethylol-tris-3-mercaptopropionate, at 1:2 isocyanate:thiol. Oligomer was added at 0, 10 or 20 wt% to BisGMA-UDMA-TEGDMA (5:3:2, with 25 wt% silanated inorganic fillers) or to one commercial composite cement (Relyx Ultimate, 3M Espe). Near-IR was used to measure methacrylate conversion after photoactivation (700 mW/cm(2) × 60s) and after 72 h. Flexural strength and modulus, toughness, and fracture toughness were evaluated in three-point bending. Polymerization stress was measured with the Bioman. The microtensile bond strength of an indirect composite and a glass ceramic to dentin was also evaluated. Results were analyzed with analysis of variance and Tukey's test (α = 0.05). For BisGMA-UDMA-TEGDMA cements, conversion values were not affected by the addition of thio-urethanes. Flexural strength/modulus increased significantly for both oligomer concentrations, with a 3-fold increase in toughness at 20 wt%. Fracture toughness increased over 2-fold for the thio-urethane modified groups. Contraction stress was reduced by 40% to 50% with the addition of thio-urethanes. The addition of thio-urethane to the commercial cement led to similar flexural strength, toughness, and conversion at 72h compared to the control. Flexural modulus decreased for the 20 wt% group, due to the dilution of the overall filler volume, which also led to decreased stress. However, fracture toughness increased by up to 50%. The microtensile bond strength increased for the experimental composite cement with 20 wt% thio-urethane bonding for both an indirect composite and a glass ceramic. Novel dual-cured composite cements containing thio-urethanes showed increased toughness, fracture toughness and bond strength to dentin while demonstrating reduced contraction stress. All of these benefits are derived without compromising the methacrylate conversion of the resin component. The modification does not require changing the operatory technique. © International & American Associations for Dental Research.

Thio-urethanes Improve Properties of Dual-cured Composite Cements

PubMed Central

Bacchi, A.; Dobson, A.; Ferracane, J.L.; Consani, R.; Pfeifer, C.S.

2014-01-01

This study aims at modifying dual-cure composite cements by adding thio-urethane oligomers to improve mechanical properties, especially fracture toughness, and reduce polymerization stress. Thiol-functionalized oligomers were synthesized by combining 1,3-bis(1-isocyanato-1-methylethyl)benzene with trimethylol-tris-3-mercaptopropionate, at 1:2 isocyanate:thiol. Oligomer was added at 0, 10 or 20 wt% to BisGMA-UDMA-TEGDMA (5:3:2, with 25 wt% silanated inorganic fillers) or to one commercial composite cement (Relyx Ultimate, 3M Espe). Near-IR was used to measure methacrylate conversion after photoactivation (700 mW/cm2 × 60s) and after 72 h. Flexural strength and modulus, toughness, and fracture toughness were evaluated in three-point bending. Polymerization stress was measured with the Bioman. The microtensile bond strength of an indirect composite and a glass ceramic to dentin was also evaluated. Results were analyzed with analysis of variance and Tukey’s test (α = 0.05). For BisGMA-UDMA-TEGDMA cements, conversion values were not affected by the addition of thio-urethanes. Flexural strength/modulus increased significantly for both oligomer concentrations, with a 3-fold increase in toughness at 20 wt%. Fracture toughness increased over 2-fold for the thio-urethane modified groups. Contraction stress was reduced by 40% to 50% with the addition of thio-urethanes. The addition of thio-urethane to the commercial cement led to similar flexural strength, toughness, and conversion at 72h compared to the control. Flexural modulus decreased for the 20 wt% group, due to the dilution of the overall filler volume, which also led to decreased stress. However, fracture toughness increased by up to 50%. The microtensile bond strength increased for the experimental composite cement with 20 wt% thio-urethane bonding for both an indirect composite and a glass ceramic. Novel dual-cured composite cements containing thio-urethanes showed increased toughness, fracture toughness and bond strength to dentin while demonstrating reduced contraction stress. All of these benefits are derived without compromising the methacrylate conversion of the resin component. The modification does not require changing the operatory technique. PMID:25248610

Mechanical Behavior of Tough Hydrogels for Structural Applications

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Illeperuma, Widusha Ruwangi Kaushalya

Hydrogels are widely used in many commercial products including Jell-O, contact lenses, and superabsorbent diapers. In recent decades, hydrogels have been under intense development for biomedical applications, such as scaffolds in tissue engineering, carriers for drug delivery, and valves in microfluidic systems. But the scope is severely limited as conventional hydrogels are weak and brittle and are not very stretchable. This thesis investigates the approaches that enhance the mechanical properties of hydrogels and their structural applications. We discov¬ered a class of exceptionally stretchable and tough hydrogels made from poly-mers that form networks via ionic and covalent crosslinks. Although such a hydrogel contains ~90% water, it can be stretched beyond 20 times its initial length, and has a fracture energy of ~9000 J/m2. The combination of large stretchability, remarkable toughness, and recoverability of stiffness and toughness, along with easy synthesis makes this material much superior over existing hydrogels. Extreme stretchability and blunted crack tips of these hydrogels question the validity of traditional fracture testing methods. We re-examine a widely used pure shear test method to measure the fracture energy. With the experimental and simulation results, we conclude that the pure shear test method can be used to measure fracture energy of extremely stretchable materials. Even though polyacrylamide-alginate hydrogels have an extremely high toughness, it has a relatively low stiffness and strength. We improved the stiffness and strength by embedding fibers. Most hydrogels are brittle, allowing the fibers to cut through the hydrogel when the composite is loaded. But tough hydrogel composites do not fail by the fibers cutting the hydrogel; instead, it undergoes large deforming by fibers sliding through the matrix. Hydrogels were not considered as materials for structural applications. But with enhanced mechanical properties, they have opened up novel applications. This thesis aims to investigate the broader applications, well beyond those investigated so far. We show fiber reinforced tough hydrogels can dissipate a significant amount of energy at a tunable level of stress, making them suitable for energy absorbing applications such as inner layer of helmets. We develop inexpensive fire-retarding materials using tough hydrogels that provide superior protection from burn injuries. We also study hydrogels as actuators that can be used in soft robotics. Hydrogels contain mostly water and they freeze when the temperature drops below 00C and lose its functions. We demonstrate a new class of hydrogels that do not freeze and hydrogels that partially freeze below water freezing temperature. Partially freezing hydrogels are ideal for cooling applications such as gel packs and non-freezing hydrogels are useful in all the structural applications at low temperatures. This thesis will enable the use of inexpensive hydrogels in a new class of non-traditional structural applications where the mechanical behavior of the hydrogel is of prime importance.

Toughness of the Virunga mountain gorilla (Gorilla beringei beringei) diet across an altitudinal gradient.

PubMed

Glowacka, Halszka; McFarlin, Shannon C; Vogel, Erin R; Stoinski, Tara S; Ndagijimana, Felix; Tuyisingize, Deo; Mudakikwa, Antoine; Schwartz, Gary T

2017-08-01

The robust masticatory system of mountain gorillas is thought to have evolved for the comminution of tough vegetation, yet, compared to other primates, the toughness of the mountain gorilla diet is unremarkable. This may be a result of low plant toughness in the mountain gorilla environment or of mountain gorillas feeding selectively on low-toughness foods. The goal of this paper is to determine how the toughness of the mountain gorilla diet varies across their habitat, which spans a large altitudinal range, and whether there is a relationship between toughness and food selection by mountain gorillas. We collected data on the following variables to determine whether, and if so how, they change with altitude: leaf toughness of two plant species consumed by mountain gorillas, at every 100 m increase in altitude (2,600-3,700 m); toughness of consumed foods comprising over 85% of the gorilla diet across five vegetation zones; and toughness of unconsumed/infrequently consumed plant parts of those foods. Although leaf toughness increased with altitude, the toughness of the gorilla diet remained similar. There was a negative relationship between toughness and consumption frequency, and toughness was a better predictor of consumption frequency than plant frequency, biomass, and density. Consumed plant parts were less tough than unconsumed/infrequently consumed parts and toughness of the latter increased with altitude. Although it is unclear whether gorillas select food based on toughness or use toughness as a sensory cue to impart other plant properties (e.g., macronutrients, chemicals), our results that gorillas maintain a consistent low-toughness dietary profile across altitude, despite toughness increasing with altitude, suggest that the robust gorilla masticatory apparatus evolved for repetitive mastication of foods that are not high in toughness. © 2017 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.

High temperature ceramic interface study

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Lindberg, L. J.

1984-01-01

Monolithic SiC and Si3N4 are susceptible to contact stress damage at static and sliding interfaces. Transformation-toughened zirconia (TTZ) was evaluated under sliding contact conditions to determine if the higher material fracture toughness would reduce the susceptibility to contact stress damage. Contact stress tests were conducted on four commercially available TTZ materials at normal loads ranging from 0.455 to 22.7 kg (1 to 50 pounds) at temperatures ranging from room temperature to 1204C (2200 F). Static and dynamic friction were measured as a function of temperature. Flexural strength measurements after these tests determined that the contact stress exposure did not reduce the strength of TTZ at contact loads of 0.455, 4.55, and 11.3 kg (1, 10, and 25 pounds). Prior testing with the lower toughness SiC and Si3N4 materials resulted in a substantial strength reduction at loads of only 4.55 and 11.3 kg (10 and 25 pounds). An increase in material toughness appears to improve ceramic material resistance to contact stress damage. Baseline material flexure strength was established and the stress rupture capability of TTZ was evaluated. Stress rupture tests determined that TTZ materials are susceptible to deformation due to creep and that aging of TTZ materials at elevated temperatures results in a reduction of material strength.

Precision diamond grinding of ceramics and glass

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Smith, S.; Paul, H.; Scattergood, R.O.

A new research initiative will be undertaken to investigate the effect of machine parameters and material properties on precision diamond grinding of ceramics and glass. The critical grinding depth to initiate the plastic flow-to-brittle fracture regime will be directly measured using plunge-grind tests. This information will be correlated with machine parameters such as wheel bonding and diamond grain size. Multiaxis grinding tests will then be made to provide data more closely coupled with production technology. One important aspect of the material property studies involves measuring fracture toughness at the very short crack sizes commensurate with grinding damage. Short crack toughnessmore » value`s can be much less than the long-crack toughness values measured in conventional fracture tests.« less

Relationships between human cortical bone toughness and collagen cross-links on paired anatomical locations.

PubMed

Gauthier, Rémy; Follet, Hélène; Langer, Max; Gineyts, Evelyne; Rongiéras, Frédéric; Peyrin, Françoise; Mitton, David

2018-07-01

Human cortical bone fracture processes depend on the internal porosity network down to the lacunar length scale. Recent results show that at the collagen scale, the maturation of collagen cross-links may have a negative influence on bone mechanical behavior. While the effect of pentosidine on human cortical bone toughness has been studied, the influence of mature and immature enzymatic cross-links has only been studied in relation to strength and work of fracture. Moreover, these relationships have not been studied on different paired anatomical locations. Thus, the aim of the current study was to assess the relationships between both enzymatic and non-enzymatic collagen cross-links and human cortical bone toughness, on four human paired anatomical locations. Single Edge Notched Bending toughness tests were performed for two loading conditions: a quasi-static standard condition, and a condition representative of a fall. These tests were done with 32 paired femoral diaphyses, femoral necks and radial diaphyses (18 women, age 81 ± 12 y.o.; 14 men, age 79 ± 8 y.o.). Collagen enzymatic and non-enzymatic crosslinks were measured on the same bones. Maturation of collagen was defined as the ratio between immature and mature cross-links (CX). The results show that there was a significant correlation between collagen cross-link maturation and bone toughness when gathering femoral and radial diaphyses, but not when considering each anatomical location individually. These results show that the influence of collagen enzymatic and non-enzymatic cross-links is minor when considering human cortical bone crack propagation mechanisms. Copyright © 2018 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

Fatigue loading and R-curve behavior of a dental glass-ceramic with multiple flaw distributions.

PubMed

Joshi, Gaurav V; Duan, Yuanyuan; Della Bona, Alvaro; Hill, Thomas J; St John, Kenneth; Griggs, Jason A

2013-11-01

To determine the effects of surface finish and mechanical loading on the rising toughness curve (R-curve) behavior of a fluorapatite glass-ceramic (IPS e.max ZirPress) and to determine a statistical model for fitting fatigue lifetime data with multiple flaw distributions. Rectangular beam specimens were fabricated by pressing. Two groups of specimens (n=30) with polished (15 μm) or air abraded surface were tested under rapid monotonic loading in oil. Additional polished specimens were subjected to cyclic loading at 2 Hz (n=44) and 10 Hz (n=36). All fatigue tests were performed using a fully articulated four-point flexure fixture in 37°C water. Fractography was used to determine the critical flaw size and estimate fracture toughness. To prove the presence of R-curve behavior, non-linear regression was used. Forward stepwise regression was performed to determine the effects on fracture toughness of different variables, such as initial flaw type, critical flaw size, critical flaw eccentricity, cycling frequency, peak load, and number of cycles. Fatigue lifetime data were fit to an exclusive flaw model. There was an increase in fracture toughness values with increasing critical flaw size for both loading methods (rapid monotonic loading and fatigue). The values for the fracture toughness ranged from 0.75 to 1.1 MPam(1/2) reaching a plateau at different critical flaw sizes based on loading method. Cyclic loading had a significant effect on the R-curve behavior. The fatigue lifetime distribution was dependent on the flaw distribution, and it fit well to an exclusive flaw model. Copyright © 2013 Academy of Dental Materials. Published by Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

Fatigue loading and R-curve behavior of a dental glass-ceramic with multiple flaw distributions

PubMed Central

Joshi, Gaurav V.; Duan, Yuanyuan; Bona, Alvaro Della; Hill, Thomas J.; John, Kenneth St.; Griggs, Jason A.

2013-01-01

Objectives To determine the effects of surface finish and mechanical loading on the rising toughness curve (R-curve) behavior of a fluorapatite glass-ceramic (IPS e.max ZirPress) and to determine a statistical model for fitting fatigue lifetime data with multiple flaw distributions. Materials and Methods Rectangular beam specimens were fabricated by pressing. Two groups of specimens (n=30) with polished (15 μm) or air abraded surface were tested under rapid monotonic loading in oil. Additional polished specimens were subjected to cyclic loading at 2 Hz (n=44) and 10 Hz (n=36). All fatigue tests were performed using a fully articulated four-point flexure fixture in 37°C water. Fractography was used to determine the critical flaw size and estimate fracture toughness. To prove the presence of R-curve behavior, non-linear regression was used. Forward stepwise regression was performed to determine the effects on fracture toughness of different variables, such as initial flaw type, critical flaw size, critical flaw eccentricity, cycling frequency, peak load, and number of cycles. Fatigue lifetime data were fit to an exclusive flaw model. Results There was an increase in fracture toughness values with increasing critical flaw size for both loading methods (rapid monotonic loading and fatigue). The values for the fracture toughness ranged from 0.75 to 1.1 MPa·m1/2 reaching a plateau at different critical flaw sizes based on loading method. Significance Cyclic loading had a significant effect on the R-curve behavior. The fatigue lifetime distribution was dependent on the flaw distribution, and it fit well to an exclusive flaw model. PMID:24034441

Strength and toughness of structural fibres for composite material reinforcement.

PubMed

Herráez, M; Fernández, A; Lopes, C S; González, C

2016-07-13

The characterization of the strength and fracture toughness of three common structural fibres, E-glass, AS4 carbon and Kevlar KM2, is presented in this work. The notched specimens were prepared by means of selective carving of individual fibres by means of the focused ion beam. A straight-fronted edge notch was introduced in a plane perpendicular to the fibre axis, with the relative notch depth being a0/D≈0.1 and the notch radius at the tip approximately 50 nm. The selection of the appropriate beam current during milling operations was performed to avoid to as much as possible any microstructural changes owing to ion impingement. Both notched and un-notched fibres were submitted to uniaxial tensile tests up to failure. The strength of the un-notched fibres was characterized in terms of the Weibull statistics, whereas the residual strength of the notched fibres was used to determine their apparent toughness. To this end, the stress intensity factor of a fronted edge crack was computed by means of the finite-element method for different crack lengths. The experimental results agreed with those reported in the literature for polyacrylonitrile-based carbon fibres obtained by using similar techniques. After mechanical testing, the fracture surface of the fibres was analysed to ascertain the failure mechanisms. It was found that AS4 carbon and E-glass fibres presented the lower toughness with fracture surfaces perpendicular to the fibre axis, emanating from the notch tip. The fractured region of Kevlar KM2 fibres extended along the fibre and showed large permanent deformation, which explains their higher degree of toughness when compared with carbon and glass fibres. This article is part of the themed issue 'Multiscale modelling of the structural integrity of composite materials'. © 2016 The Author(s).

Strength and toughness of structural fibres for composite material reinforcement

PubMed Central

Herráez, M.; Fernández, A.; Lopes, C. S.

2016-01-01

The characterization of the strength and fracture toughness of three common structural fibres, E-glass, AS4 carbon and Kevlar KM2, is presented in this work. The notched specimens were prepared by means of selective carving of individual fibres by means of the focused ion beam. A straight-fronted edge notch was introduced in a plane perpendicular to the fibre axis, with the relative notch depth being a0/D≈0.1 and the notch radius at the tip approximately 50 nm. The selection of the appropriate beam current during milling operations was performed to avoid to as much as possible any microstructural changes owing to ion impingement. Both notched and un-notched fibres were submitted to uniaxial tensile tests up to failure. The strength of the un-notched fibres was characterized in terms of the Weibull statistics, whereas the residual strength of the notched fibres was used to determine their apparent toughness. To this end, the stress intensity factor of a fronted edge crack was computed by means of the finite-element method for different crack lengths. The experimental results agreed with those reported in the literature for polyacrylonitrile-based carbon fibres obtained by using similar techniques. After mechanical testing, the fracture surface of the fibres was analysed to ascertain the failure mechanisms. It was found that AS4 carbon and E-glass fibres presented the lower toughness with fracture surfaces perpendicular to the fibre axis, emanating from the notch tip. The fractured region of Kevlar KM2 fibres extended along the fibre and showed large permanent deformation, which explains their higher degree of toughness when compared with carbon and glass fibres. This article is part of the themed issue ‘Multiscale modelling of the structural integrity of composite materials’. PMID:27242306

Grain refinement of high strength steels to improve cryogenic toughness

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Rush, H. F.

1985-01-01

Grain-refining techniques using multistep heat treatments to reduce the grain size of five commercial high-strength steels were investigated. The goal of this investigation was to improve the low-temperature toughness as measured by Charpy V-notch impact test without a significant loss in tensile strength. The grain size of four of five alloys investigated was successfully reduced up to 1/10 of original size or smaller with increases in Charpy impact energy of 50 to 180 percent at -320 F. Tensile properties were reduced from 0 to 25 percent for the various alloys tested. An unexpected but highly beneficial side effect from grain refining was improved machinability.

Low temperature impact toughness of the main gas pipeline steel after long-term degradation

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Maruschak, Pavlo O.; Danyliuk, Iryna M.; Bishchak, Roman T.; Vuherer, Tomaž

2014-12-01

The correlation of microstructure, temperature and Charpy V-notch impact properties of a steel 17G1S pipeline steel was investigated in this study. Within the concept of physical mesomechanics, the dynamic failure of specimens is represented as a successive process of the loss of shear stability, which takes place at different structural/scale levels of the material. Characteristic stages are analyzed for various modes of failure, moreover, typical levels of loading and oscillation periods, etc. are determined. Relations between low temperature derived through this test, microstructures and Charpy (V-notch) toughness test results are also discussed in this paper.

Aqueous stress-corrosion cracking of high-toughness D6AC steel

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Gilbreath, W. P.; Adamson, M. J.

1976-01-01

The crack growth behavior of D6AC steel as a function of stress intensity, stress and corrosion history, and test technique, under sustained load in filtered natural seawater, 3.3 per cent sodium chloride solution, and distilled water, was investigated. Reported investigations of D6AC were considered in terms of the present study with emphasis on thermal treatment, specimen configuration, fracture toughness, crack-growth rates, initiation period, and threshold. Both threshold and growth kinetics were found to be relatively insensitive to these test parameters. The apparent incubation period was dependent on technique, both detection sensitivity and precracking stress intensity level.

Effect of Bimodal Grain Size Distribution on Scatter in Toughness

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Chakrabarti, Debalay; Strangwood, Martin; Davis, Claire

2009-04-01

Blunt-notch tests were performed at -160 °C to investigate the effect of a bimodal ferrite grain size distribution in steel on cleavage fracture toughness, by comparing local fracture stress values for heat-treated microstructures with uniformly fine, uniformly coarse, and bimodal grain structures. An analysis of fracture stress values indicates that bimodality can have a significant effect on toughness by generating high scatter in the fracture test results. Local cleavage fracture values were related to grain size distributions and it was shown that the largest grains in the microstructure, with an area percent greater than approximately 4 pct, gave rise to cleavage initiation. In the case of the bimodal grain size distribution, the large grains from both the “fine grain” and “coarse grain” population initiate cleavage; this spread in grain size values resulted in higher scatter in the fracture stress than in the unimodal distributions. The notch-bend test results have been used to explain the difference in scatter in the Charpy energies for the unimodal and bimodal ferrite grain size distributions of thermomechanically controlled rolled (TMCR) steel, in which the bimodal distribution showed higher scatter in the Charpy impact transition (IT) region.

Microstructural effects on the deformation and fracture of the alloy Ti-25Al-10Nb-3B-1Mo. Final report, 1 July 1988-15 December 1992

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Ward, C.H.

1992-12-01

The effects of microstructure and temperature on tensile and fracture behavior were explored for the titanium aluminide alloy Ti-25Al-lONb-3V-lMo (atomic percent). Three microstructures were selected for this study in an attempt to determine the role of the individual microstructural constituents. the three microstructures studied were an alpha-2 + beta processed microstructure with a fine Widmanstaetten microstructure, a beta processed microstructure with a fine Widmanstaetten microstructure, and a beta processed microstructure with a coarse Widmanstaetten microstructure. Tensile testing of both round and flat specimens was conducted in vacuum at elevated temperature and in air at room and elevated temperatures. Extensive fractographymore » and specimen sectioning were used to study tensile deformation and the effects of environment on this alloy. Room temperature fracture toughness testing using compact tension specimens was conducted. Elevated temperature toughness testing was performed using J-bend bar specimens in an air environment. Again, extensive fractography and specimen sectioning were used to study the elevated temperature toughening mechanisms of this alloy.... Titanium, Titanium aluminide, Intermetallic, Fracture toughness, Tensile behavior, Fractography environmental interaction.« less

Microstructure and Residual Stress Distributions Under the Influence of Welding Speed in Friction Stir Welded 2024 Aluminum Alloy

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Moghadam, Danial Ghahremani; Farhangdoost, Khalil; Nejad, Reza Masoudi

2016-06-01

Friction stir welding was conducted on 8-mm-thick plates made of AA2024-T351 aluminum alloy at tool traverse speeds between 8 and 31.5 mm/minutes and tool rotational speed between 400 and 800 rpm. Metallographic analyses and mechanical tests including hardness, tensile, residual stress, and fracture toughness tests were carried out to evaluate the microstructural and mechanical properties of the joints as a function of the process parameters. The finite element simulation of the FSW process was also performed using a thermal model. The hardness test results show that the increase in rotational speed or decrease in traverse speed of the tool would cause a decrease in weld zone hardness. The best tensile properties are obtained at rotational/traverse speed ratio between 20 and 32. Also, the longitudinal residual stress profiles were evaluated by employing X-ray diffraction method. The numerical and experimental results showed that the increase in a traverse or rotational speed would increase the residual stress of the weld zone. From the fracture toughness results, it was found that the welding process decreases the joints fracture toughness 18 to 49 pct with respect to the base metal.

A New Aging Treatment for Improving Cryogenic Toughness of the Main Structural Alloy of the Super Lightweight Tank

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Chen, P. S.; Stanton, W. P.

1996-01-01

Marshall Space Flight Center (MSFC) has developed a new technique that can enhance cryogenic fracture toughness and reduce the statistical spread of toughness values in alloy 2195. This aging treatment can control the location and size of strengthening precipitate T1, making improvements possible in cryogenic fracture toughness (CFT) and fracture toughness ratio (FTR). At the start of this program, design of experiments (DOE) ingot No. 10 was used as a baseline for aging process development and optimization. The new aging treatment was found to be very effective, improving CFT by approximately 15 to 20 percent for DOE ingot No. 10. To further evaluate the repeatability and effectiveness of this new treatment, the investigators selected and tested three more lots of alloy 2195, using 1.75-in-thick gauge plates with FTR values ranging from 0.85 to 1.07. The new aging treatment effectively enhanced CFT and FTR values for all three lots. In one instance, the material was considered rejectable because it did not meet the minimum FTR value (1.0) of the super lightweight tank (SLWT). The new aging treatment improved its FTR from 0.85 to 1.01, making this material acceptable for use in the SLWT.

Weibull analysis of fracture test data on bovine cortical bone: influence of orientation.

PubMed

Khandaker, Morshed; Ekwaro-Osire, Stephen

2013-01-01

The fracture toughness, K IC, of a cortical bone has been experimentally determined by several researchers. The variation of K IC values occurs from the variation of specimen orientation, shape, and size during the experiment. The fracture toughness of a cortical bone is governed by the severest flaw and, hence, may be analyzed using Weibull statistics. To the best of the authors' knowledge, however, no studies of this aspect have been published. The motivation of the study is the evaluation of Weibull parameters at the circumferential-longitudinal (CL) and longitudinal-circumferential (LC) directions. We hypothesized that Weibull parameters vary depending on the bone microstructure. In the present work, a two-parameter Weibull statistical model was applied to calculate the plane-strain fracture toughness of bovine femoral cortical bone obtained using specimens extracted from CL and LC directions of the bone. It was found that the Weibull modulus of fracture toughness was larger for CL specimens compared to LC specimens, but the opposite trend was seen for the characteristic fracture toughness. The reason for these trends is the microstructural and extrinsic toughening mechanism differences between CL and LC directions bone. The Weibull parameters found in this study can be applied to develop a damage-mechanics model for bone.

Effect of TiC addition on fracture toughness of Al6061 alloy

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Raviraj, M. S.; Sharanprabhu, C. M.; Mohankumar, G. C.

2018-04-01

Al 6061 matrix was reinforced with different proportions of TiC particles such as 3wt%, 5wt% and 7wt% and the effect on fracture toughness was studied. Al-TiC metal matrix composites were produced by stir casting method to ensure uniform distribution of the TiC particulates in the Al matrix. LEFM (Linear Elastic Fracture Mechanics) has been used to characterize the fracture toughness using various specimen geometries. The compact tension (CT) specimens with straight through notch were machined as per ASTM E399 specifications. All the specimens were machined to have constant a/W=0.5 and B/W was varied from 0.2 to 0.7. A sharp crack initiation was done at the end of notch by fatigue loading using servo-hydraulic controlled testing machine. Load v/s crack mouth opening displacement (CMOD) data was plotted and stress intensity factor, KQ determined. Critical stress intensity factor KIC was obtained by plotting KQ v/s thickness of specimen data. The fracture toughness of the composites varied between 16-19 MPa√m as compared to 23MPa√m for base alloy Al6061. Composites with 3wt% and 7wt% TiC showed better fracture toughness than 5wt% TiC reinforced Al metal matrix composites.

Shape effect of ultrafine-grained structure on static fracture toughness in low-alloy steel.

PubMed

Inoue, Tadanobu; Kimura, Yuuji; Ochiai, Shojiro

2012-06-01

A 0.4C-2Si-1Cr-1Mo steel with an ultrafine elongated grain (UFEG) structure and an ultrafine equiaxed grain (UFG) structure was fabricated by multipass caliber rolling at 773 K and subsequent annealing at 973 K. A static three-point bending test was conducted at ambient temperature and at 77 K. The strength-toughness balance of the developed steels was markedly better than that of conventionally quenched and tempered steel with a martensitic structure. In particular, the static fracture toughness of the UFEG steel, having a yield strength of 1.86 GPa at ambient temperature, was improved by more than 40 times compared with conventional steel having a yield strength of 1.51 GPa. Furthermore, even at 77 K, the fracture toughness of the UFEG steel was about eight times higher than that of the conventional and UFG steels, despite the high strength of the UFEG steel (2.26 GPa). The UFG steel exhibited brittle fracture behavior at 77 K, as did the conventional steel, and no dimple structure was observed on the fracture surface. Therefore, it is difficult to improve the low-temperature toughness of the UFG steel by grain refinement only. The shape of crystal grains plays an important role in delamination toughening, as do their refinement and orientation.

A review of the effect of a/W ratio on fracture toughness (I) —Experimental investigation in EPFM

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Li, Qing-Fen; Zheng, Wei; Shu, Hai-Sheng

2005-03-01

Many experimental investigations have previously been performed and recently done on different shipbuilding structural steels where the specimens size and crack depth/specimen width ( a/W) were varied. A series of interesting results have been gained. It is worthwhile to have a review on the effect of a/W ratio on fracture toughness, and further theoretical analysis is necessary. In this paper, experimental work in elasticplastic fracture mechanics (EPFM) was discussed. Tests had been carried out on 10 kinds of strength steels. Results showed that J i and δ1 values increased with decreasing a/W when a/W<0.3 for three-point bend specimens and that shallow crack specimens which have less constrained flow field give markedly higher values of toughness than deeply notched specimens. However, for a/W>0.3, the toughness was found to be independent of a/W. Slip line field analysis shows that for shallow cracks, the hydrostatic stress is lower than that from standard deeply cracked bend specimen which develops a high level of crack tip constraint, provides a lower bound estimate of toughness, and will ensure an unduly conservative approach when applied to structure defects especially if initiation values of COD/ J-integral are used.

Shape effect of ultrafine-grained structure on static fracture toughness in low-alloy steel

PubMed Central

Inoue, Tadanobu; Kimura, Yuuji; Ochiai, Shojiro

2012-01-01

A 0.4C-2Si-1Cr-1Mo steel with an ultrafine elongated grain (UFEG) structure and an ultrafine equiaxed grain (UFG) structure was fabricated by multipass caliber rolling at 773 K and subsequent annealing at 973 K. A static three-point bending test was conducted at ambient temperature and at 77 K. The strength–toughness balance of the developed steels was markedly better than that of conventionally quenched and tempered steel with a martensitic structure. In particular, the static fracture toughness of the UFEG steel, having a yield strength of 1.86 GPa at ambient temperature, was improved by more than 40 times compared with conventional steel having a yield strength of 1.51 GPa. Furthermore, even at 77 K, the fracture toughness of the UFEG steel was about eight times higher than that of the conventional and UFG steels, despite the high strength of the UFEG steel (2.26 GPa). The UFG steel exhibited brittle fracture behavior at 77 K, as did the conventional steel, and no dimple structure was observed on the fracture surface. Therefore, it is difficult to improve the low-temperature toughness of the UFG steel by grain refinement only. The shape of crystal grains plays an important role in delamination toughening, as do their refinement and orientation. PMID:27877493

A laboratory means to produce tough aluminum sheet from powder

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Singleton, O. R.; Royster, D. M.; Thomas, J. R.

1990-01-01

The rapid solidification of aluminum alloys as powder and the subsequent fabrication processes can be used to develop and tailor alloys to satisfy specific aerospace design requirements, including high strength and toughness. Laboratory procedures to produce aluminum powder-metallurgy (PM) materials are efficient but require evidence that the laboratory methods used can produce a product with superior properties. This paper describes laboratory equipment and procedures which can be used to produce tough aluminum PM sheet. The processing of a 2124 + 0.9 percent Zr aluminum alloy powder is used as an example. The fully hardened sheet product is evaluated in terms of properties and microstructure. The key features of the vacuum hot press pressing operation used to consolidate the powder are described. The 2124 + 0.9 percent Zr - T8 temper aluminum sheet produced was both strong (460-490 MPa yield strength) and tough (Kahn Tear unit-propagation- energy values over three times those typical for ingot metallurgy 2024-T81). Both the longitudinal and longitudinal-transverse directions of the sheet were tested. The microstructure was well refined with subgrains of one or two micrometers. Fine dispersoids of Al3Zr in the precipitate free regions adjacent to boundaries are believed to contribute to the improved toughness.

Effect of Heat Treatment Technique on the Low Temperature Impact Toughness of Steel EQ70 for Offshore Structure

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Tao, Su-Fen; Xia, Yun-Jin; Wang, Fu-Ming; Li, Jie; Fan, Ding-Dong

2017-09-01

Circle quenching and tempering (CQ&T), intercritical quenching and tempering (IQ&T) and regular quenching and tempering (Q&T) were used to study the influence of heat treatment techniques on the low temperature impact toughness of steel EQ70 for offshore structure. The steels with 2.10 wt. % Ni (steel A) and 1.47 wt. % Ni (steel B) were chosen to analyze the effect of Ni content on the low temperature impact toughness of steel EQ70 for offshore structure. The fracture morphologies were examined by using a scanning electron microscope (SEM, JSM-6480LV), and microstructures etched by 4 vol. % nitric acid were observed on a type 9XB-PC optical microscope. The results show that the impact toughness of steel A is higher than that of steel B at the same test temperature and heat treatment technique. For steel B, the energy absorbed is, in descending order, CQ&T, Q&T and IQ&T, while for steel A, that is CQ&T, IQ&T and Q&T. The effects of heat treatment on the low temperature impact toughness are different for steels A and B, the absorbed energy changes more obviously for steel A. The results can be significant references for actual heat treatment techniques in steel plant.

An Assessment of the Ductile Fracture Behavior of Hot Isostatically Pressed and Forged 304L Stainless Steel

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Cooper, A. J.; Smith, R. J.; Sherry, A. H.

2017-05-01

Type 300 austenitic stainless steel manufactured by hot isostatic pressing (HIP) has recently been shown to exhibit subtly different fracture behavior from that of equivalent graded forged steel, whereby the oxygen remaining in the component after HIP manifests itself in the austenite matrix as nonmetallic oxide inclusions. These inclusions facilitate fracture by acting as nucleation sites for the initiation, growth, and coalescence of microvoids in the plastically deforming austenite matrix. Here, we perform analyses based on the Rice-Tracey (RT) void growth model, supported by instrumented Charpy and J-integral fracture toughness testing at ambient temperature, to characterize the degree of void growth ahead of both a V-notch and crack in 304L stainless steel. We show that the hot isostatically pressed (HIP'd) 304L steel exhibits a lower critical void growth at the onset of fracture than that observed in forged 304L steel, which ultimately results in HIP'd steel exhibiting lower fracture toughness at initiation and impact toughness. Although the reduction in toughness of HIP'd steel is not detrimental to its use, due to the steel's sufficiently high toughness, the study does indicate that HIP'd and forged 304L steel behave as subtly different materials at a microstructural level with respect to their fracture behavior.

Service tough composite structures using the Z-direction reinforcement process

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Freitas, Glenn; Magee, Constance; Boyce, Joseph; Bott, Richard

1992-01-01

Foster-Miller has developed a new process to provide through thickness reinforcement of composite structures. The process reinforces laminates locally or globally on-tool during standard autoclave processing cycles. Initial test results indicate that the method has the potential to significantly reduce delamination in carbon-epoxy. Laminates reinforced with the z-fiber process have demonstrated significant improvements in mode 1 fracture toughness and compression strength after impact. Unlike alternative methods, in-plane properties are not adversely affected.

Fracture toughness of SiC/Al metal matrix composite

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Flom, Yury; Parker, B. H.; Chu, H. P.

1989-01-01

An experimental study was conducted to evaluate fracture toughness of SiC/Al metal matrix composite (MMC). The material was a 12.7 mm thick extrusion of 6061-T6 aluminum alloy with 40 v/o SiC particulates. Specimen configuration and test procedure conformed to ASTM E399 Standard for compact specimens. It was found that special procedures were necessary to obtain fatigue cracks of controlled lengths in the preparation of precracked specimens for the MMC material. Fatigue loading with both minimum and maximum loads in compression was used to start the precrack. The initial precracking would stop by self-arrest. Afterwards, the precrack could be safely extended to the desired length by additional cyclic tensile loading. Test results met practically all the E399 criteria for the calculation of plane strain fracture toughness of the material. A valid K sub IC value of the SiC/Al composite was established as K sub IC = 8.9 MPa square root of m. The threshold stress intensity under which crack would cease to grow in the material was estimated as delta K sub th = 2MPa square root of m for R = 0.09 using the fatigue precracking data. Fractographic examinations show that failure occurred by the micromechanism involved with plastic deformation although the specimens broke by brittle fracture. The effect of precracking by cyclic loading in compression on fracture toughness is included in the discussion.

Microstructure and mechanical properties of bulk and plasma-sprayed y2O3-partially stabilized zirconia

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Valentine, P. G.; Maier, R. D.

1980-01-01

Bulk 8.0 weight percent yttria partially stabilied zirconia (PSZ) was studied by light microscopy, transmission electron microscopy, X-ray analysis, microhardness testing, and fracture toughness testing. The as received PSZ contained spheroidal and grain boundary precipitates up to 4 micrometers in size. Spheroids up to 1.26 micrometers were metastable tetragonal; large spheroids were monoclinic. Grinding the PSZ into powder did not cause a significant amount of tetragonal to transform to monoclinic. This indicates that transformation toughness is not a significant mechanism in PSZ. Aging the PSZ at 1500 C caused the fine tetragonal precipitates to grow from 0.06 to 0.12 micrometers, in 250 minutes. A peak hardness of 1400 kg/sq mm was attained after 50 minutes. Solution annealing and quenching the as received PSZ eliminated the large precipitates, but fine tetragonal precipitates reformed on quenching. Aging at 1500 C caused the fine 0.02 micrometers tetragonal precipitates to grow into plates about 0.10 by 0.50 micrometers. A peak hardness of 1517 kg/sq mm was obtained after 250 minutes. On further aging, monoclinic percipitates formed along grain boundaries. The fracture toughness of the aged and unaged solution annealed and quenched PSZ was found to be between 2 and 3 MN /square root of m cubed. This range of fracture toughness is consistent with PSZ's that do not undergo transformation toughening.

Evaluation of five CAD/CAM materials by microstructural characterization and mechanical tests: a comparative in vitro study.

PubMed

Sonmez, Nesrin; Gultekin, Pinar; Turp, Volkan; Akgungor, Gokhan; Sen, Deniz; Mijiritsky, Eitan

2018-01-08

Polymer infiltrated ceramics and nano-ceramic resins are the new restorative materials which have been developed in order to enhance the adverse properties of glass-matrix ceramics and resin composites. The aim of the present in vitro study was to evaluate the characteristics of various CAD/CAM materials through mechanical, microstructural, and SEM analysis. Five test groups (n = 22) were formed by using the indicated CAD/CAM blocks: VITA Enamic (VITA Zahnfabrik), Lava Ultimate (3 M ESPE), IPS e.max CAD (Ivoclar Vivadent), IPS Empress CAD (Ivoclar Vivadent), and VITA Mark II (VITA Zahnfabrik). Two specimens from each test group were used for XRD and EDS analysis. Remaining samples were divided into two subgroups (n = 10). One subgroup specimens were thermocycled (5 °C to 55 °C, 30s, 10,000 cycles) whereas the other were not. All of the specimens were evaluated in terms of flexural strength, Vickers hardness, and fracture toughness. Results were statistically analyzed using two-way ANOVA, one-way ANOVA, Tukey's HSD, and Student's t tests (α = .05). Fractured specimens were evaluated using SEM. The highest Vickers microhardness value was found for VITA Mark II (p < .001), however flexural strength and fracture toughness results were lowest conversely (p < .05). IPS e.max CAD was found to have the highest flexural strength (p < .001). Fracture toughness of IPS e.max CAD was also higher than other tested block materials (p < .001). Lava Ultimate and VITA Enamic's mechanical properties were affected negatively from thermocycling (p < .05). Microhardness, flexural strength, and fracture toughness values of Lava Ultimate and VITA Enamic were found to be similar to VITA Mark II and IPS Empress CAD groups. It should be realised that simulated aging process seem to affect ceramic-polymer composite materials more significantly than glass ceramics.

Study of fracture toughness of ZrO2 ceramics

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Deryugin, Yevgeny; Narkevich, Natalya; Vlasov, Ilya; Panin, Victor; Danilenko, Igor; Schmauder, Siegfried

2017-12-01

The fracture toughness characteristics of ZrO2ceramics were determined experimentally using an original technique of wedging small-sized chevron notch specimens developed at the Institute of Strength Physics and Materials Science SB RAS (Russia) in the laboratory of physical mesomechanics of materials and non-destructive testing. Measurements have shown that inelastic displacements can be more than 22% of the total displacement of the consoles by the time of the specimen failure. The effect of the Y2O3 stabilizer on the critical stress intensity factor KIc was verified. It was shown that an increase in the Y2O3 stabilizer content from 3 to 8% significantly decreases the fracture toughness. The stress intensity factor KIc falls within the range from 5.7 to 2.35 MPa m1/2.

Enhanced Impact Toughness at Ambient Temperatures of Ultrafine-Grained Al-26 wt.% Si Alloy Produced by Equal-Channel Angular Pressing

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Jiang, Jinghua; Yuan, Ting; Shi, Jun; Zhang, Lingling; Ma, Aibin; Song, Dan

2018-05-01

Overcoming general brittleness of hypereutectic Al-Si alloys is in urgent need for expanding their application in automotive, aerospace and construction industries. A unique phenomenon was observed that bulk ultrafine-grained Al-26 wt.% Si alloy, produced by severe plastic deformation via equal-channel angular pressing, exhibited higher toughness at the impact temperature of - 196 100 °C than the coarse-grained casting alloy. The improvement in impact toughness at all testing temperatures was mainly due to the homogeneous ultrafine-grained structure with the breakage of brittle primary silicon crystals, which generated more and deeper fracture dimples that consumed much higher fracture energy. It indicates the advantage of bulk ultrafine-grained Al-Si alloys and spurs their application interest at various ambient temperatures.

Enhanced Impact Toughness at Ambient Temperatures of Ultrafine-Grained Al-26 wt.% Si Alloy Produced by Equal-Channel Angular Pressing

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Jiang, Jinghua; Yuan, Ting; Shi, Jun; Zhang, Lingling; Ma, Aibin; Song, Dan

2018-04-01

Overcoming general brittleness of hypereutectic Al-Si alloys is in urgent need for expanding their application in automotive, aerospace and construction industries. A unique phenomenon was observed that bulk ultrafine-grained Al-26 wt.% Si alloy, produced by severe plastic deformation via equal-channel angular pressing, exhibited higher toughness at the impact temperature of - 196 100 °C than the coarse-grained casting alloy. The improvement in impact toughness at all testing temperatures was mainly due to the homogeneous ultrafine-grained structure with the breakage of brittle primary silicon crystals, which generated more and deeper fracture dimples that consumed much higher fracture energy. It indicates the advantage of bulk ultrafine-grained Al-Si alloys and spurs their application interest at various ambient temperatures.

Rock Fracture Toughness Under Mode II Loading: A Theoretical Model Based on Local Strain Energy Density

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Rashidi Moghaddam, M.; Ayatollahi, M. R.; Berto, F.

2018-01-01

The values of mode II fracture toughness reported in the literature for several rocks are studied theoretically by using a modified criterion based on strain energy density averaged over a control volume around the crack tip. The modified criterion takes into account the effect of T-stress in addition to the singular terms of stresses/strains. The experimental results are related to mode II fracture tests performed on the semicircular bend and Brazilian disk specimens. There are good agreements between theoretical predictions using the generalized averaged strain energy density criterion and the experimental results. The theoretical results reveal that the value of mode II fracture toughness is affected by the size of control volume around the crack tip and also the magnitude and sign of T-stress.

46 CFR 54.05-5 - Toughness test specimens.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

2010-10-01

... shown in Figure 4 of the specification. Special attention is drawn to the fact that the Charpy Keyhole....090-inch. In preparing weld specimens for dropweight testing, weld reinforcement shall be ground flush...

Tear and decohesion of bovine pericardial tissue.

PubMed

Tobaruela, Almudena; Elices, Manuel; Bourges, Jean Yves; Rojo, Francisco Javier; Atienza, José Miguel; Guinea, Gustavo

2016-10-01

The aim of this study was to evaluate quantitatively the fracture-by tear and delamination-of bovine pericardium tissues which are usually employed for the manufacture of bioprosthetic valves. A large number of samples (77) were tested in root-to-apex and circumferential directions, according to a standardised tear test (ASTM D 1938). Before performing the tear test, some samples were subjected to 1000 cycles of fatigue to a maximum stress of 3MPa. Fracture toughness of tearing and delamination were computed by following a simple fracture model. The study showed significantly lower values of delamination toughness compared with tear delamination. Moreover, tear forces were different in each test direction, revealing a clear orthotropic behaviour. All these results, as well as the testing procedure, could be of value for future research in the physiological function of pericardium tissues and clinical applications. Copyright © 2016 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

Correlations of microstructure with dynamic and quasi-static fracture in a plain carbon steel

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Couque, H.; Asaro, R. J.; Duffy, J.; Lee, S. H.

1988-09-01

An investigation was conducted into the effects of temperature, loading rate, and various micro-structural parameters on the initiation of plane strain fracture of a plain carbon AISI 1020 steel. Ferrite and prior austenite grain sizes were chosen as the principal microstructural features to be in-vestigated. The microstructural variations were accomplished by changing the austenitizing tempera-ture and by altering the cooling rate during normalization. Fracture toughness tests were conducted using precracked notched round bars loaded in tension to produce two stress intensity rates, viz., K 1 = 1 MPa √m s-1 and K 1 = 2 × 106 MPa √m s-1. In addition, Charpy impact tests along with quasistatic and high rate plasticity tests were conducted. The plasticity tests were done in torsion at shear strain rates ofoverline γ = 5.0 × 10^{ - 4} s^{ - 1 } and overline γ = 1.5 × 10^{3 } s^{ - 1} . Testing temperatures covered the range from -150 °C to 150 °C which encompassed fracture initiation modes involving transgranular cleavage to fully ductile fracture. Micromechanical processes involved in void and cleavage micro-crack formation were identified and quantified. For these purposes notched round tensile tests and subsequent metallographic observations along with TEM and SEM observations of the plane strain fracture toughness specimens were performed. The experimental results and quantitative micro-modeling using simple fracture models provide a means of correlating both quasistatic and dynamic fracture toughness with microstructures.

Multifunctional CNT-polymer composites for ultra-tough structural supercapacitors and desalination devices.

PubMed

Benson, Jim; Kovalenko, Igor; Boukhalfa, Sofiane; Lashmore, David; Sanghadasa, Mohan; Yushin, Gleb

2013-12-03

Pulsed electrodeposition of polyaniline (PANI) allows the fabrication of flexible, electrically conductive, nonwoven PANI-carbon nanotube (PANI-CNT) composite fabrics. They possess specific tensile strength and a modulus of toughness higher than that of aluminum matrix composites, titanium and aluminum alloys, steels, and many other structural materials. Electrochemical tests show that these nanocomposites additionally offer excellent cycle stability and ion electro-sorption and storage properties. © 2013 WILEY-VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim.

Mechanical Properties of a High Lead Glass Used in the Mars Organic Molecule Analyzer

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Salem, Jonathan A.; Smith, Nathan A.; Ersahin, Akif

2015-01-01

The elastic constants, strength, fracture toughness, slow crack growth parameters, and mirror constant of a high lead glass supplied as tubes and funnels were measured using ASTM International (formerly ASTM, American Society for Testing and Materials) methods and modifications thereof. The material exhibits lower Young's modulus and slow crack growth exponent as compared to soda-lime silica glass. Highly modified glasses exhibit lower fracture toughness and slow crack growth exponent than high purity glasses such as fused silica.

Properties of fiber reinforced plastics about static and dynamic loadings

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Kudinov, Vladimir V.; Korneeva, Natalia V.

2016-05-01

A method for investigation of impact toughness of anisotropic polymer composite materials (reinforced plastics) with the help of CM model sample in the configuration of microplastic (micro plastic) and impact pendulum-type testing machine under static and dynamic loadings has been developed. The method is called "Break by Impact" (Impact Break IB). The estimation of impact resistance CFRP by this method showed that an increase in loading velocity ~104 times the largest changes occurs in impact toughness and deformation ability of a material.

Effect of matrix material on the fracture behavior and toughness of high temperature polymer composites

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Chenock, T.A.Jr.; Heshmet, A.

1990-07-01

The effect of matrix material on the strength, toughness, and fracture behavior of two high temperature polyimide/carbon fiber composites has been studied and compared. The polyimide matrix resins under investigation are PMR-II-20, PMR-15. Each system was reinforced with epoxy sized Celion G30-500 carbon fabric (8HSW, 3K tow). Un-notched and notched specimens were tested under 4-point bend loading in both translaminar and crosslaminar directions.

Temperature effects on the deformation and fracture of Al-Li-Cu-In alloys

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Wagner, John A.; Gangloff, Richard P.

1991-01-01

The crack initiation and growth fracture resistance of Al-Cu-Li and Al-Cu-Li-In alloys were characterized and optimized for cryogenic tank applications. Presently, the effects of stress state and temperature is being determined on the fracture toughness and fracture mechanisms of commercially available Vintage 3 2090-T81 and experimental 2090+In-T6. Precracked J-integral specimens of both alloys were tested at ambient and cryogenic temperatures in the plane stress and plane strain conditions. Considering ambient temperature, results showed that 2090-T81 exhibited the highest toughness in both plane strain and plane stress conditions. For the plane strain condition, reasonable crack initiation and growth toughness of 1090-T81 are associated with a significant amount of delamination and transgranular fracture. Plane stress toughnesses were higher and fracture was characterized by shear cracking with minimal delaminations. In comparisons, the fracture behavior of 2090+In-T6 is significantly degraded by subgrain boundary precipitation. Toughness is low and characterized by intersubgranular fracture with no delamination in the plane stress or plane strain conditions. Intersubgranular cracking is a low energy event which presumably occurs prior to the onset of slip band cracking. Copious grain boundary precipitation is atypical of commercially available 2090. At cryogenic temperatures, both alloys exhibit increased yield strength, toughness, and amount of delamination and shear cracking. The change in fracture mode of 2090+In-T6 from intersubgranular cracking at ambient temperature to a combination of intersubgranular cracking, shear cracking, and delamination at cryogenic temperature is the subject of further investigation.

Effects of Cryogenic Temperature on Fracture Toughness of Core-Shell Rubber (CSR) Toughened Epoxy Nanocomposites

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Wang, J.; Cannon, S. A.; Magee, D.; Schneider, J. A.

2008-01-01

This study investigated the effects of core-shell rubber (CSR) nanoparticles on the mechanical properties and fracture toughness of an epoxy resin at ambient and liquid nitrogen (LN2) temperatures. Varying amounts of Kane Ace MX130 toughening agent were added to a commercially available EPON 862/Epikure W epoxy resin. Elastic modulus was calculated using quasi-static tensile data. Fracture toughness was evaluated by the resulting breaking energy measured in Charpy impact tests conducted on an instrumented drop tower. The size and distribution of the CSR nanoparticles were characterized using Transmission Electron Microscopy (TEM) and Small Angle X-ray Scattering (SAXS). Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM) was used to study the fracture surface morphology. The addition of the CSR nanoparticles increased the breaking energy with negligible change in elastic modulus and ultimate tensile stress (UTS). At ambient temperature the breaking energy increased with increasing additions of the CSR nanoparticles, while at LN2 temperatures, it reached a maximum at 5 wt% CSR concentration. KEY WORDS: liquid nitrogen (LN2) properties, fracture toughness, core-shell rubber (CSR).

Factors Affecting Impact Toughness in Stabilized Intermediate Purity 21Cr Ferritic Stainless Steels and Their Simulated Heat-Affected Zones

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Anttila, Severi; Alatarvas, Tuomas; Porter, David A.

2017-12-01

The correlation between simulated weld heat-affected zone microstructures and toughness parameters has been investigated in four intermediate purity 21Cr ferritic stainless steels stabilized with titanium and niobium either separately or in combination. Extensive Charpy V impact toughness testing was carried out followed by metallography including particle analysis using electron microscopy. The results confirmed that the grain size and the number density of particle clusters rich in titanium nitride and carbide with an equivalent circular diameter of 2 µm or more are statistically the most critical factors influencing the ductile-to-brittle transition temperature. Other inclusions and particle clusters, as well as grain boundary precipitates, are shown to be relatively harmless. Stabilization with niobium avoids large titanium-rich inclusions and also suppresses excessive grain growth in the heat-affected zone when reasonable heat inputs are used. Thus, in order to maximize the limited heat-affected zone impact toughness of 21Cr ferritic stainless steels containing 380 to 450 mass ppm of interstitials, the stabilization should be either titanium free or the levels of titanium and nitrogen should be moderated.

Enhancements to the TOUGH2 Simulator as Implemented in iTOUGH2

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Finsterle, Stefan

iTOUGH2 is a program for parameter estimation, sensitivity analysis, and uncertainty propagation analysis. It is based on the TOUGH2 simulator for non-isothermal multiphase, multicomponent flow and transport in fractured and porous media [Pruess, 1987, 1991, 2005, 2011; Falta et al., 1995; Pruess et al., 1999, 2002, 2012; Doughty, 2013]. The core of iTOUGH2 contains slightly modified versions of TOUGH2 modules. Most code modifications are editorial and do not affect the simulation results. As a result, standard TOUGH2 input files can be used in iTOUGH2, and identical results are obtained if iTOUGH2 is run in forward mode. However, a number ofmore » modifications have been made as described in this report. They enhance the functionality, flexibilitu, and eas-of-use of the forward simulator. This report complements the reports iTOUGH2 User's Guide, iTOUGH2 Command Referecne, and the collection of tutorial examples in iTOUGH2 Sample Problems.« less

Effects of surface preparation on the long-term durability of adhesively bonded composite joints

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Bardis, Jason Dante

The long-term durability of adhesively bonded composite joints is critical to modern aircraft structures, which are increasingly adopting bonding as an alternative option to mechanical fastening. The effects of the surface preparation of the adherends are critical, affecting initial strength, long-term durability, fracture toughness, and failure modes of bonded joints. In this study, several potential factors are evaluated, with focus on the following: (1) Effects of possible chemical contamination from release fabrics, release films, and peel plies during adherend cure. (2) Chemical and mechanical effects of abrasion on the fracture toughness and failure mode. (3) Characterization of paste and film adhesives. There are several standard test methods used to evaluate specimen fracture, but the majority concentrate on bonded metals and interlaminar composite fracture. Testing concentrated on mode I tests; a custom double cantilever beam specimen was devised and utilized, and two forms of a wedge crack test (traveling and static) were also used. Additionally, single lap shear tests were run to contrast the mode I tests. Non-destructive testing included X-ray photography of crack fronts, energy dispersive spectroscopy and X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy surface chemistry analyses, and scanning electron microscope imaging of prepared surfaces. All mode I test methods tended to be in agreement in the ranking of different surface preparation methods. Test results revealed that release agents deposited on adherend surfaces during their cure cycle prevented proper adhesion. While mechanical abrasion did improve their fracture toughness and lower their contamination greatly, the test values did not reach the levels of samples that were not contaminated before bonding, and the interfacial modes of failure did not always change to desirable modes.

Prediction of R-curves from small coupon tests

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Yeh, J. R.; Bray, G. H.; Bucci, R. J.; Macheret, Y.

1994-01-01

R-curves were predicted for Alclad 2024-T3 and C188-T3 sheet using the results of small-coupon Kahn tear tests in combination with two-dimensional elastic-plastic finite element stress analyses. The predictions were compared to experimental R-curves from 6.3, 16 and 60-inch wide M(T) specimens and good agreement was obtained. The method is an inexpensive alternative to wide panel testing for characterizing the fracture toughness of damage-tolerant sheet alloys. The usefulness of this approach was demonstrated by performing residual strength calculations for a two-bay crack in a representative fuselage structure. C188-T3 was predicted to have a 24 percent higher load carrying capability than 2024-T3 in this application as a result of its superior fracture toughness.

Impact resistance and interlaminar fracture toughness of through-the-thickness reinforced graphite/epoxy

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Dexter, H. B.; Funk, J. G.

1986-01-01

Five through-the-thickness stitch configurations are analyzed to determine the effect of impact resistance and interlaminar fracture toughness on T3000/3501-6 graphite/epoxy. The test specimens were stitched with either polyester or Kevlar yarns and with various stitch parameters. Tension and compression mechanical, impact and compression-after-impact, and double cantilever beam tests were conducted. It is observed that the stitched laminates have tension and compression strengths 20-25 percent lower than the strengths of unstitched laminates, the tension strength of stitched laminates is reduced with increasing number of stitches, and the compression strength increases as the number of stitches are increased. The impact data reveal that the Kevlar stitched laminates have less damage than unstitched laminates; the most effective configuration for suppressing impact damage and improving interlaminar fracture toughness consists of Kevlar yarns 1/4 inch apart with eight stitches per inch. The mode 1 critical strain energy release rate for the 1/4 inch Kevlar eight stitch laminate was calculated as 30 times higher than that of the unstitched.

Effect of Solute Segregation on Fracture Toughness in a Ni-Cr Steel

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Kameda, Jun

1981-12-01

A study has been made of the influence of intergranular solute segregation on fracture toughness K1c in a series of Ni-Cr steels individually doped with Sb, Sn, and P. By means of toughness measurements in steels having two different intergranular Sb distributions, of measurements of acoustic emissions and of scanning electron micrographs of a load-interrupted and post-test-fatigued specimen, the values of K1c, computed from the “pop-in” load of the load vs clip gauge displacement curves, are found to represent the formation of many patches of contiguous intergranular microcracks ahead of the precrack. The present experiments demonstrate that in the early stage of solute segregation, K1c decreases more substantially than does the strength of grain boundaries σ* (measured in the notched bar tests), although the embrittlement effects of metalloid elements are the same order for both K1c and σ*. A proposed model for the stress-gradient-control of brittle fracture supports the finding that the measurements of K1c give a distorted view of the progress of intergranular embrittlement.

Room temperature crack growth rates and -20 deg F fracture toughness of welded 1 1/4 inch A-285 steel plate

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Shannon, J. L., Jr.; Rzasnicki, W.

1977-01-01

Data are presented which were developed in support of a structural assessment of NASA-LEWIS' 10-foot by 10-foot supersonic wind tunnel, critical portions of which are fabricated from rolled and welded 1 1/4 inch thick A-285 steel plate. Test material was flame cut from the tunnel wall and included longitudinal and circumferential weld joints. Parent metal, welds, and weld heat affected zone were tested. Tensile strength and fracture toughness were determined at -20 F, the estimated lowest tunnel operating temperature. Crack growth rates were measured at room temperature, where growth rates in service are expected to be highest.

Microstructural characterization of Charpy-impact-tested nanostructured bainite

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Tsai, Y.T.; Chang, H.T.; Huang, B.M.

2015-09-15

In this work, a possible cause of the extraordinary low impact toughness of nanostructured bainite has been investigated. The microstructure of nanostructured bainite consisted chiefly of carbide-free bainitic ferrite with retained austenite films. X-ray diffractometry (XRD) measurement indicated that no retained austenite existed in the fractured surface of the Charpy-impact-tested specimens. Fractographs showed that cracks propagated mainly along bainitic ferrite platelet boundaries. The change in microstructure after impact loading was verified by transmission electron microscopy (TEM) observations, confirming that retained austenite was completely transformed to strain-induced martensite during the Charpy impact test. However, the zone affected by strained-induced martensite wasmore » found to be extremely shallow, only to a depth of several micrometers from the fracture surface. It is appropriately concluded that upon impact, as the crack forms and propagates, strain-induced martensitic transformation immediately occurs ahead of the advancing crack tip. The successive martensitic transformation profoundly facilitates the crack propagation, resulting in the extremely low impact toughness of nanostructured bainite. Retained austenite, in contrast to its well-known beneficial role, has a deteriorating effect on toughness during the course of Charpy impact. - Highlights: • The microstructure of nanostructured bainite consisted of nano-sized bainitic ferrite subunits with retained austenite films. • Special sample preparations for SEM, XRD and TEM were made, and the strain-affected structures have been explored. • Retained austenite films were found to transform into martensite after impact loading, as evidenced by XRD and TEM results. • The zone of strain-induced martensite was found to extend to only several micrometers from the fracture surface. • The poor Charpy impact toughness is associated with the fracture of martensite at a high strain rate during impact loading.« less

Effects of through-the-thickness stitching on impact and interlaminar fracture properties of textile graphite/epoxy laminates

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Sharma, Suresh K.; Sankar, Bhavani V.

1995-01-01

This study investigated the effects of through-the-thickness stitching on impact damage resistance, impact damage tolerance, and mode I and mode II fracture toughness of textile graphite/epoxy laminates. Uniweave resin-transfer-molded 48 ply graphite/epoxy (AS4/3501-6) laminates were stitched with Kevlar and glass yarns of different linear densities and stitch spacings. Delaminations were implanted during processing to simulate impact damage. Sublaminate buckling tests were performed to determine the effects of stitching on the compressive strength. The results showed outstanding improvements of up to 400 percent in the compression strength over the unstitched laminates. In impact and static indentation tests the onset of damage occurred at the same level, but the extent of damage was less in stitched laminates. Mode I fracture toughness of 24 ply Uniweave unidirectional (AS4/3501-6) stitched laminates was measured by conducting double-cantilever-beam tests. The critical strain energy release rate (G(sub Ic)) was found to be up to 30 times higher than the unstitched laminates. Mode II fracture toughness of the Uniweave laminates was measured by performing end-notched-flexure tests. Two new methods to compute the apparent G(sub IIc) are presented. The apparent G(sub IIc) was found to be at least 5-15 times higher for the stitched laminates.

An Experimental Investigation of the Effects of Vacuum Environment on the Fatigue Life, Fatigue-Crack-Growth Behavior, and Fracture Toughness of 7075-T6 Aluminum Alloy. Ph.D. Thesis - North Carolina State Univ.

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Hudson, C. M.

1972-01-01

Axial load fatigue life, fatigue-crack propagation, and fracture toughness tests were conducted on 0.090-inch thick specimens made of 7075-T6 aluminum alloy. The fatigue life and fatigue-crack propagation experiments were conducted at a stress ratio of 0.02. Maximum stresses ranged from 33 to 60 ksi in the fatigue life experiments, and from 10 to 40 ksi in the fatigue-crack propagation experiments, and fatigue life experiments were conducted at gas pressures of 760, 0.5, 0.05, and 0.00000005 torr. Fatigue-crack-growth and fracture toughness experiments were conducted at gas pressures of 760 and 5 x 10 to the minus 8th power torr. Residual stress measurements were made on selected fatigue life specimens to determine the effect of such stresses on fatigue life. Analysis of the results from the fatigue life experiments indicated that fatigue life progressively increased as the gas pressure decreased. Analysis of the results from the fatigue-crack-growth experiments indicates that at low values of stress-intensity range, the fatigue crack growth rates were approximately twice as high in air as in vacuum. Fracture toughness data showed there was essentially no difference in the fracture toughness of 7075-T6 in vacuum and in air.

Improvement of the mode II interface fracture toughness of glass fiber reinforced plastics/aluminum laminates through vapor grown carbon fiber interleaves.

PubMed

Ning, Huiming; Li, Yuan; Hu, Ning; Cao, Yanping; Yan, Cheng; Azuma, Takesi; Peng, Xianghe; Wu, Liangke; Li, Jinhua; Li, Leilei

2014-06-01

The effects of acid treatment, vapor grown carbon fiber (VGCF) interlayer and the angle, i.e., 0° and 90°, between the rolling stripes of an aluminum (Al) plate and the fiber direction of glass fiber reinforced plastics (GFRP) on the mode II interlaminar mechanical properties of GFRP/Al laminates were investigated. The experimental results of an end notched flexure test demonstrate that the acid treatment and the proper addition of VGCF can effectively improve the critical load and mode II fracture toughness of GFRP/Al laminates. The specimens with acid treatment and 10 g m -2 VGCF addition possess the highest mode II fracture toughness, i.e., 269% and 385% increases in the 0° and 90° specimens, respectively compared to those corresponding pristine ones. Due to the induced anisotropy by the rolling stripes on the aluminum plate, the 90° specimens possess 15.3%-73.6% higher mode II fracture toughness compared to the 0° specimens. The improvement mechanisms were explored by the observation of crack propagation path and fracture surface with optical, laser scanning and scanning electron microscopies. Moreover, finite element analyses were carried out based on the cohesive zone model to verify the experimental fracture toughness and to predict the interface shear strength between the aluminum plates and GFRP laminates.

Fracture Toughness (KIC) of Lithography Based Manufactured Alumina Ceramic

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Nindhia, T. G. T.; Schlacher, J.; Lube, T.

2018-04-01

Precision shaped ceramic components can be obtained by an emerging technique called Lithography based Ceramic Manufacturing (LCM). A green part is made from a slurry consisting of a ceramic powder in a photocurable binder with addition of dispersant and plasticizer. Components are built in a layer–by-layer way by exposing the desired cross- sections to light. The parts are subsequently sintered to their final density. It is a challenge to produce ceramic component with this method that yield the same mechanical properties in all direction. The fracture toughness (KIc) of of LCM-alumina (prepared at LITHOZ GmbH, Austria) was tested by using the Single-Edge-V-Notched Beam (SEVNB) method. Notches are made into prismatic bend-bars in all three direction X, Y and Z to recognize the value of fracture toughness of the material in all three directions. The microstructure was revealed with optical microscopy as well as Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM). The results indicate that the fracture toughness in Y-direction has the highest value (3.10 MPam1/2) that is followed by the one in X-direction which is just a bit lower (2.90 MPam1/2). The Z-direction is found to have a similar fracture toughness (2.95 MPam1/2). This is supported by a homogeneous microstructure showing no hint of the layers used during production.

Crack growth rates and fracture toughness of irradiated austenitic stainless steels in BWR environments.

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Chopra, O. K.; Shack, W. J.

2008-01-21

In light water reactors, austenitic stainless steels (SSs) are used extensively as structural alloys in reactor core internal components because of their high strength, ductility, and fracture toughness. However, exposure to high levels of neutron irradiation for extended periods degrades the fracture properties of these steels by changing the material microstructure (e.g., radiation hardening) and microchemistry (e.g., radiation-induced segregation). Experimental data are presented on the fracture toughness and crack growth rates (CGRs) of wrought and cast austenitic SSs, including weld heat-affected-zone materials, that were irradiated to fluence levels as high as {approx} 2x 10{sup 21} n/cm{sup 2} (E > 1more » MeV) ({approx} 3 dpa) in a light water reactor at 288-300 C. The results are compared with the data available in the literature. The effects of material composition, irradiation dose, and water chemistry on CGRs under cyclic and stress corrosion cracking conditions were determined. A superposition model was used to represent the cyclic CGRs of austenitic SSs. The effects of neutron irradiation on the fracture toughness of these steels, as well as the effects of material and irradiation conditions and test temperature, have been evaluated. A fracture toughness trend curve that bounds the existing data has been defined. The synergistic effects of thermal and radiation embrittlement of cast austenitic SS internal components have also been evaluated.« less

A simple cohesive zone model that generates a mode-mixity dependent toughness

DOE PAGES

Reedy, Jr., E. D.; Emery, J. M.

2014-07-24

A simple, mode-mixity dependent toughness cohesive zone model (MDG c CZM) is described. This phenomenological cohesive zone model has two elements. Mode I energy dissipation is defined by a traction–separation relationship that depends only on normal separation. Mode II (III) dissipation is generated by shear yielding and slip in the cohesive surface elements that lie in front of the region where mode I separation (softening) occurs. The nature of predictions made by analyses that use the MDG c CZM is illustrated by considering the classic problem of an elastic layer loaded by rigid grips. This geometry, which models a thinmore » adhesive bond with a long interfacial edge crack, is similar to that which has been used to measure the dependence of interfacial toughness on crack-tip mode-mixity. The calculated effective toughness vs. applied mode-mixity relationships all display a strong dependence on applied mode-mixity with the effective toughness increasing rapidly with the magnitude of the mode-mixity. The calculated relationships also show a pronounced asymmetry with respect to the applied mode-mixity. As a result, this dependence is similar to that observed experimentally, and calculated results for a glass/epoxy interface are in good agreement with published data that was generated using a test specimen of the same type as analyzed here.« less

Improvement of the mode II interface fracture toughness of glass fiber reinforced plastics/aluminum laminates through vapor grown carbon fiber interleaves

PubMed Central

Ning, Huiming; Li, Yuan; Hu, Ning; Cao, Yanping; Yan, Cheng; Azuma, Takesi; Peng, Xianghe; Wu, Liangke; Li, Jinhua; Li, Leilei

2014-01-01

The effects of acid treatment, vapor grown carbon fiber (VGCF) interlayer and the angle, i.e., 0° and 90°, between the rolling stripes of an aluminum (Al) plate and the fiber direction of glass fiber reinforced plastics (GFRP) on the mode II interlaminar mechanical properties of GFRP/Al laminates were investigated. The experimental results of an end notched flexure test demonstrate that the acid treatment and the proper addition of VGCF can effectively improve the critical load and mode II fracture toughness of GFRP/Al laminates. The specimens with acid treatment and 10 g m−2 VGCF addition possess the highest mode II fracture toughness, i.e., 269% and 385% increases in the 0° and 90° specimens, respectively compared to those corresponding pristine ones. Due to the induced anisotropy by the rolling stripes on the aluminum plate, the 90° specimens possess 15.3%–73.6% higher mode II fracture toughness compared to the 0° specimens. The improvement mechanisms were explored by the observation of crack propagation path and fracture surface with optical, laser scanning and scanning electron microscopies. Moreover, finite element analyses were carried out based on the cohesive zone model to verify the experimental fracture toughness and to predict the interface shear strength between the aluminum plates and GFRP laminates. PMID:27877680

Fracture toughness of titanium-cement interfaces: effects of fibers and loading angles.

PubMed

Khandaker, Morshed; Utsaha, Khatri Chhetri; Morris, Tracy

2014-01-01

Ideal implant-cement or implant-bone interfaces are required for implant fixation and the filling of tissue defects created by disease. Micron- to nanosize osseointegrated features, such as surface roughness, fibers, porosity, and particles, have been fused with implants for improving the osseointegration of an implant with the host tissue in orthopedics and dentistry. The effects of fibers and loading angles on the interface fracture toughness of implant-cement specimens with and without fibers at the interface are not yet known. Such studies are important for the design of a long-lasting implant for orthopedic applications. The goal of this study was to improve the fracture toughness of an implant-cement interface by deposition of micron- to nanosize fibers on an implant surface. There were two objectives in the study: 1) to evaluate the influence of fibers on the fracture toughness of implant-cement interfaces with and without fibers at the interfaces, and 2) to evaluate the influence of loading angles on implant-cement interfaces with and without fibers at the interfaces. This study used titanium as the implant, poly(methyl methacrylate) (PMMA) as cement, and polycaprolactone (PCL) as fiber materials. An electrospinning unit was fabricated for the deposition of PCL unidirectional fibers on titanium (Ti) plates. The Evex tensile test stage was used to determine the interface fracture toughness (KC) of Ti-PMMA with and without PCL fibers at 0°, 45°, and 90° loading angles, referred to in this article as tension, mixed, and shear tests. The study did not find any significant interaction between fiber and loading angles (P>0.05), although there was a significant difference in the KC means of Ti-PMMA samples for the loading angles (P<0.05). The study also found a significant difference in the KC means of Ti-PMMA samples with and without fibers (P<0.05). The results showed that the addition of the micron- to nanosize PCL fibers on Ti improved the quality of the Ti-PMMA union. The results of the study are essential for fatigue testing and finite-element analysis of implant-cement interfaces to evaluate the performance of orthopedic and orthodontic implants.

Fracture toughness of titanium–cement interfaces: effects of fibers and loading angles

PubMed Central

Khandaker, Morshed; Utsaha, Khatri Chhetri; Morris, Tracy

2014-01-01

Ideal implant–cement or implant–bone interfaces are required for implant fixation and the filling of tissue defects created by disease. Micron- to nanosize osseointegrated features, such as surface roughness, fibers, porosity, and particles, have been fused with implants for improving the osseointegration of an implant with the host tissue in orthopedics and dentistry. The effects of fibers and loading angles on the interface fracture toughness of implant–cement specimens with and without fibers at the interface are not yet known. Such studies are important for the design of a long-lasting implant for orthopedic applications. The goal of this study was to improve the fracture toughness of an implant–cement interface by deposition of micron- to nanosize fibers on an implant surface. There were two objectives in the study: 1) to evaluate the influence of fibers on the fracture toughness of implant–cement interfaces with and without fibers at the interfaces, and 2) to evaluate the influence of loading angles on implant–cement interfaces with and without fibers at the interfaces. This study used titanium as the implant, poly(methyl methacrylate) (PMMA) as cement, and polycaprolactone (PCL) as fiber materials. An electrospinning unit was fabricated for the deposition of PCL unidirectional fibers on titanium (Ti) plates. The Evex tensile test stage was used to determine the interface fracture toughness (KC) of Ti–PMMA with and without PCL fibers at 0°, 45°, and 90° loading angles, referred to in this article as tension, mixed, and shear tests. The study did not find any significant interaction between fiber and loading angles (P>0.05), although there was a significant difference in the KC means of Ti–PMMA samples for the loading angles (P<0.05). The study also found a significant difference in the KC means of Ti–PMMA samples with and without fibers (P<0.05). The results showed that the addition of the micron- to nanosize PCL fibers on Ti improved the quality of the Ti–PMMA union. The results of the study are essential for fatigue testing and finite-element analysis of implant–cement interfaces to evaluate the performance of orthopedic and orthodontic implants. PMID:24729704

Elevated temperature crack growth in advanced powder metallurgy aluminum alloys

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Porr, William C., Jr.; Gangloff, Richard P.

1990-01-01

Rapidly solidified Al-Fe-V-Si powder metallurgy alloy FVS0812 is among the most promising of the elevated temperature aluminum alloys developed in recent years. The ultra fine grain size and high volume fraction of thermally stable dispersoids enable the alloy to maintain tensile properties at elevated temperatures. In contrast, this alloy displays complex and potentially deleterious damage tolerant and time dependent fracture behavior that varies with temperature. J-Integral fracture mechanics were used to determine fracture toughness (K sub IC) and crack growth resistance (tearing modulus, T) of extruded FVS0812 as a function of temperature. The alloy exhibits high fracture properties at room temperature when tested in the LT orientation, due to extensive delamination of prior ribbon particle boundaries perpendicular to the crack front. Delamination results in a loss of through thickness constraint along the crack front, raising the critical stress intensity necessary for precrack initiation. The fracture toughness and tensile ductility of this alloy decrease with increasing temperature, with minima observed at 200 C. This behavior results from minima in the intrinsic toughness of the material, due to dynamic strain aging, and in the extent of prior particle boundary delaminations. At 200 C FVS0812 fails at K levels that are insufficient to cause through thickness delamination. As temperature increases beyond the minimum, strain aging is reduced and delamination returns. For the TL orientation, K (sub IC) decreased and T increased slightly with increasing temperature from 25 to 316 C. Fracture in the TL orientation is governed by prior particle boundary toughness; increased strain localization at these boundaries may result in lower toughness with increasing temperature. Preliminary results demonstrate a complex effect of loading rate on K (sub IC) and T at 175 C, and indicate that the combined effects of time dependent deformation, environment, and strain aging may play a role. Fractography showed that microvoid coalescence was the microscopic mode of fracture in FVS0812 under all testing conditions. However, the nature of the microvoids varied with test temperature and loading rate, and is complex for the fine grain and dipersoid sizes of FVS0812.

Development of Mini-Compact Tension Test Method for Determining Fracture Toughness Master Curves for Reactor Pressure Vessel Steels

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Sokolov, Mikhail A.

Small specimens are playing the key role in evaluating properties of irradiated materials. The use of small specimens provides several advantages. Typically, only a small volume of material can be irradiated in a reactor at desirable conditions in terms of temperature, neutron flux, and neutron dose. A small volume of irradiated material may also allow for easier handling of specimens. Smaller specimens reduce the amount of radioactive material, minimizing personnel exposures and waste disposal. However, use of small specimens imposes a variety of challenges as well. These challenges are associated with proper accounting for size effects and transferability of smallmore » specimen data to the real structures of interest. Any fracture toughness specimen that can be made out of the broken halves of standard Charpy specimens may have exceptional utility for evaluation of reactor pressure vessels (RPVs) since it would allow one to determine and monitor directly actual fracture toughness instead of requiring indirect predictions using correlations established with impact data. The Charpy V-notch specimen is the most commonly used specimen geometry in surveillance programs. Validation of the mini compact tension specimen (mini-CT) geometry has been performed on previously well characterized Midland beltline Linde 80 (WF-70) weld in the unirradiated condition. It was shown that the fracture toughness transition temperature, To, measured by these Mini-CT specimens is almost the same as To value that was derived from various larger fracture toughness specimens. Moreover, an International collaborative program has been established to extend the assessment and validation efforts to irradiated Linde 80 weld metal. The program is underway and involves the Oak Ridge National Laboratory (ORNL), Central Research Institute for Electrical Power Industry (CRIEPI), and Electric Power Research Institute (EPRI). The irradiated Mini-CT specimens from broken halves of previously tested Charpy specimens of Midland beltline weld have been machined and just arrived to ORNL as part of this international collaboration. The ORNL will initiate tests of the irradiated Linde 80 weld in FY2017 and results of this international program will be reported in FY2018.« less

Evaluation of the split cantilever beam for Mode 3 delamination testing

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Martin, Roderick H.

1989-01-01

A test rig for testing a thick split cantilever beam for scissoring delamination (mode 3) fracture toughness was developed. A 3-D finite element analysis was conducted on the test specimen to determine the strain energy release rate, G, distribution along the delamination front. The virtual crack closure technique was used to calculate the G components resulting from interlaminar tension, GI, interlaminar sliding shear, GII, and interlaminar tearing shear, GIII. The finite element analysis showed that at the delamination front no GI component existed, but a GII component was present in addition to a GIII component. Furthermore, near the free edges, the GII component was significantly higher than the GIII component. The GII/GIII ratio was found to increase with delamination length but was insensitive to the beam depth. The presence of GII at the delamination front was verified experimentally by examination of the failure surfaces. At the center of the beam, where the failure was in mode 3, there was significant fiber bridging. However, at the edges of the beam where the failure was in mode 3, there was no fiber bridging and mode 2 shear hackles were observed. Therefore, it was concluded that the split cantilever beam configuration does not represent a pure mode 3 test. The experimental work showed that the mode 2 fracture toughness, GIIc, must be less than the mode 3 fracture toughness, GIIIc. Therefore, a conservative approach to characterizing mode 3 delamination is to equate GIIIc to GIIc.

Effect of initial delamination on Mode 1 and Mode 2 interlaminar fracture toughness and fatigue fracture threshold

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Murri, Gretchen Bostaph; Martin, Roderick H.

1991-01-01

Static and fatigue double-cantilever beam (DCB) and end-notch flexure (ENF) tests were conducted to determine the effect of the simulated initial delamination in interlaminar fracture toughness, G(sub c), and fatigue fracture threshold, G(sub th). Unidirectional, 24-ply specimens of S2/SP250 glass/epoxy were tested using Kapton inserts of four different thickness - 13, 25, 75, and 130 microns, at the midplane at one end, or with tension or shear precracks, to simulate an initial delamination. To determine G(sub c), the fatigue fracture threshold below which no delamination growth would occur in less than 1 x 10(exp 6) cycles, fatigue tests were conducted by cyclically loading specimens until delamination growth was detected. Consistent values of model 1 fracture toughness, G(sub Ic), were measured from DCB specimens with inserts of thickness 75 microns or thinner, or with shear precracks. The fatigue DCB tests gave similar values of G(sub Ith) for the 13, 25, and 75 microns specimens. Results for the shear precracked specimens were significantly lower that for specimens without precracks. Results for both the static and fatigue ENF tests showed that measured G(IIc) and G(IIth) values decreased with decreasing insert thickness, so that no limiting thickness could be determined. Results for specimens with inserts of 75 microns or thicker were significantly higher than the results for precracked specimens or specimens with 13 or 25 microns inserts.

Effects of Core-Shell Rubber (CSR) Nanoparticles on the Fracture Toughness of an Epoxy Resin at Cryogenic Temperatures

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Wang, J.; Cannon, S. A.; Schneider, J. A.

2008-01-01

This study investigates the effects of core-shell rubber (CSR) nanoparticles on the fracture toughness of an epoxy resin at liquid nitrogen (LN2) temperatures. Varying amounts of Kane Ace (Registered TradeMark) MX130 toughening agent were added to a commercially available EPON 862/W epoxy resin. Resulting fracture toughness was evaluated by the use of Charpy impact tests conducted on an instrumented drop tower. The size and distribution of the CSR nanoparticles were characterized using Transmission Electric Microscopy (TEM) and Small Angle X-ray Scattering (SAXS). Up to nominal 4.6% addition of the CSR nanoparticles, resulted in a nearly 5 times increase in the measured breaking energy. However, further increases in the amount of CSR nanoparticles had no appreciable affect on the breaking energy.

Interlaminar fracture of random short-fiber SMC composite

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Wang, S. S.; Suemasu, H.; Zahlan, N. M.

1984-01-01

In the experimental phase of the present study of the interlaminar fracture behavior of a randomly oriented short fiber sheet molding compound (SMC) composite, the double cantilever beam fracture test is used to evaluate the mode I interlaminar fracture toughness of different composite thicknesses. In the analytical phase of this work, a geometrically nonlinear analysis is introduced in order to account for large deflections and nonlinear load deflection curves in the evaluation of interlaminar fracture toughness. For the SMC-R50 material studied, interlaminar toughness is an order of magnitude higher than that of unreinforced neat resin, due to unusual damage mechanisms ahead of the crack tip, together with significant fiber bridging across crack surfaces. Composite thickness effects on interlaminar fracture are noted to be appreciable, and a detailed discussion is given on the influence of SMC microstructure.

Interfacial fracture toughness of different resin cements bonded to a lithium disilicate glass ceramic.

PubMed

Hooshmand, Tabassom; Rostami, Golriz; Behroozibakhsh, Marjan; Fatemi, Mostafa; Keshvad, Alireza; van Noort, Richard

2012-02-01

To evaluate the effect of HF acid etching and silane treatment on the interfacial fracture toughness of a self-adhesive and two conventional resin-based cements bonded to a lithium disilicate glass ceramic. Lithium disilicate glass ceramic discs were prepared with two different surface preparations consisting of gritblasted with aluminium oxide, and gritblasted and etched with hydrofluoric acid. Ceramic surfaces with a chevron shaped circular hole were treated by an optimized silane treatment followed by an unfilled resin and then three different resin cements (Variolink II, Panavia F2, and Multilink Sprint). Specimens were kept in distilled water at 37°C for 24h and then subjected to thermocycling. The interfacial fracture toughness was measured and mode of failures was also examined. Data were analysed using analysis of variance followed by T-test analysis. No statistically significant difference in the mean fracture toughness values between the gritblasted and gritblasted and etched surfaces for Variolink II resin cement was found (P>0.05). For the gritblasted ceramic surfaces, no significant difference in the mean fracture toughness values between Panavia F2 and Variolink II was observed (P>0.05). For the gritblasted and etched ceramic surfaces, a significantly higher fracture toughness for Panavia F2 than the other cements was found (P<0.05). The interfacial fracture toughness for the lithium disilicate glass ceramic system was affected by the surface treatment and the type of luting agent. Dual-cured resin cements demonstrated a better bonding efficacy to the lithium disilicate glass ceramic compared to the self-adhesive resin cement. The lithium disilicate glass ceramic surfaces should be gritblasted and etched to get the best bond when used with Panavia F2 and Multilink Sprint resin cements, whereas for the Variolink II only gritblasting is required. The best bond overall is achieved with Panavia F2. Copyright © 2011 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

How tough is bone? Application of elastic-plastic fracture mechanics to bone.

PubMed

Yan, Jiahau; Mecholsky, John J; Clifton, Kari B

2007-02-01

Bone, with a hierarchical structure that spans from the nano-scale to the macro-scale and a composite design composed of nano-sized mineral crystals embedded in an organic matrix, has been shown to have several toughening mechanisms that increases its toughness. These mechanisms can stop, slow, or deflect crack propagation and cause bone to have a moderate amount of apparent plastic deformation before fracture. In addition, bone contains a high volumetric percentage of organics and water that makes it behave nonlinearly before fracture. Many researchers used strength or critical stress intensity factor (fracture toughness) to characterize the mechanical property of bone. However, these parameters do not account for the energy spent in plastic deformation before bone fracture. To accurately describe the mechanical characteristics of bone, we applied elastic-plastic fracture mechanics to study bone's fracture toughness. The J integral, a parameter that estimates both the energies consumed in the elastic and plastic deformations, was used to quantify the total energy spent before bone fracture. Twenty cortical bone specimens were cut from the mid-diaphysis of bovine femurs. Ten of them were prepared to undergo transverse fracture and the other 10 were prepared to undergo longitudinal fracture. The specimens were prepared following the apparatus suggested in ASTM E1820 and tested in distilled water at 37 degrees C. The average J integral of the transverse-fractured specimens was found to be 6.6 kPa m, which is 187% greater than that of longitudinal-fractured specimens (2.3 kPa m). The energy spent in the plastic deformation of the longitudinal-fractured and transverse-fractured bovine specimens was found to be 3.6-4.1 times the energy spent in the elastic deformation. This study shows that the toughness of bone estimated using the J integral is much greater than the toughness measured using the critical stress intensity factor. We suggest that the J integral method is a better technique in estimating the toughness of bone.

Subtask 12D3: Fracture properties of V-5Cr-5Ti Alloy

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Li, H.; Hamilton, M.L.; Jones, R.H.

1995-03-01

The purpose of this research is to investigate the effect of heat treatment on microstructure and fracture toughness of a V-5Cr-5Ti alloy in the range -50-100{degrees}C. Fracture toughness and impact tests were performed on a V-5Cr-5Ti alloy. Specimens annealed at 1125{degrees}C for 1 h and furnace cooled in a vacuum of 1.33 x 10{sup -5} Pa were brittle at room temperature (RT) and experienced a mixture of intergranular and cleavage fracture. Fracture toughness (J{sub IQ}) at RT was 52 kJ/m{sup 2} and the impact fracture energy (IFE) was 6 J. The IFE at -100{degrees}C was only 1 J. While specimensmore » exhibited high fracture toughness at 100{degrees}C (J{sub IQ} is 485 kj/m{sup 2}), fracture was a mixture of dimple and intergranular failure, with intergranular fracture making up 40% of the total fracture surface. The ductile to brittle transition temperature (DBTT) was estimated to be about 20{degrees}C. When some specimens were given an additional annealing at 890{degrees}C for 24 h, they became very ductile at RT and fractured by microvoid coalescence. The J{sub IQ} value increased from 52 kJ/m{sup 2} to {approximately}1100 kJ/m{sup 2}. The impact test failed to fracture specimens at RT due to a large amount of plastic deformation. 7 refs., 1 fig., 6 tabs.« less

Effects of solar radiation on glass

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Tucker, Dennis S.; Kinser, Donald L.

1991-01-01

The effects of solar radiation of selected glasses are reported. Optical property degradation is studied using UV-Vis spectrophotometry. Strength changes are measured using a concentric ring bend test. Direct fracture toughness measurements using an indentation test are planned.

Apparent Interfacial Fracture Toughness of Resin/Ceramic Systems

PubMed Central

Della Bona, A.; Anusavice, K.J.; Mecholsky, J.J.

2008-01-01

We suggest that the apparent interfacial fracture toughness (KA) may be estimated by fracture mechanics and fractography. This study tested the hypothesis that the KA of the adhesion zone of resin/ceramic systems is affected by the ceramic microstructure. Lithia disilicate-based (Empress2-E2) and leucite-based (Empress-E1) ceramics were surface-treated with hydrofluoric acid (HF) and/or silane (S), followed by an adhesive resin. Microtensile test specimens (n = 30; area of 1 ± 0.01 mm2) were indented (9.8 N) at the interface and loaded to failure in tension. We used tensile strength (σ) and the critical crack size (c) to calculate KA (KA = Yσc1/2) (Y = 1.65). ANOVA and Weibull analyses were used for statistical analyses. Mean KA (MPa•m1/2) values were: (E1HF) 0.26 ± 0.06; (E1S) 0.23 ± 0.06; (E1HFS) 0.30 ± 0.06; (E2HF) 0.31 ± 0.06; (E2S) 0.13 ± 0.05; and (E2HFS) 0.41 ± 0.07. All fractures originated from indentation sites. Estimation of interfacial toughness was feasible by fracture mechanics and fractography. The KA for the systems tested was affected by the ceramic microstructure and surface treatment. PMID:17062746

Fracture mechanics analysis for various fiber/matrix interface loadings

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Naik, R. A.; Crews, J. H., Jr.

1991-01-01

Fiber/matrix (F/M) cracking was analyzed to provide better understanding and guidance in developing F/M interface fracture toughness tests. Two configurations, corresponding to F/M cracking at a broken fiber and at the free edge, were investigated. The effects of mechanical loading, thermal cooldown, and friction were investigated. Each configuration was analyzed for two loadings: longitudinal and normal to the fiber. A nonlinear finite element analysis was performed to model friction and slip at the F/M interface. A new procedure for fitting a square-root singularity to calculated stresses was developed to determine stress intensity factors (K sub I and K sub II) for a bimaterial interface crack. For the case of F/M cracking at a broken fiber with longitudinal loading, crack tip conditions were strongly influenced by interface friction. As a result, an F/M interface toughness test based on this case was not recommended because nonlinear data analysis methods would be required. For the free edge crack configuration, both mechanical and thermal loading caused crack opening, thereby avoiding frictional effects. A F/M interface toughness test based on this configuration would provide data for K(sub I)/K(sub II) ratios of about 0.7 and 1.6 for fiber and radial normal loading, respectively. However, thermal effects must be accounted for in the data analysis.

Fracture mechanics analysis for various fiber/matrix interface loadings

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Naik, Rajiv A.; Crews, John H., Jr.

1992-01-01

Fiber/matrix (F/M) cracking was analyzed to provide better understanding and guidance in developing F/M interface fracture toughness tests. Two configurations, corresponding to F/M cracking at a broken fiber and at the free edge, were investigated. The effects of mechanical loading, thermal cooldown, and friction were investigated. Each configuration was analyzed for two loadings: longitudinal and normal to the fiber. A nonlinear finite element analysis was performed to model friction and slip at the F/M interface. A new procedure for fitting a square-root singularity to calculated stresses was developed to determine stress intensity factors (K sub I and K sub II) for a bimaterial interface crack. For the case of F/M cracking at a broken fiber with longitudinal loading, crack tip conditions were strongly influenced by interface friction. As a result, an F/M interface toughness test based on this case was not recommended because nonlinear data analysis methods would be required. For the free edge crack configuration, both mechanical and thermal loading caused crack opening, theory avoiding fractional effects. A F/M interface toughness test based on this configuration would provide data for K(sub I/K(sub II) ratios of about 0.7 and 1.6 for fiber and radial normal loading, respectively. However, thermal effects must be accounted for in the data analysis.

Fracture mechanics analysis for various fiber/matrix interface loadings

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Naik, R. A.; Crews, J. H., Jr.

1991-01-01

Fiber/matrix (F/M) cracking was analyzed to provide better understanding and guidance in developing F/M interface fracture toughness tests. Two configurations, corresponding to F/M cracking at a broken fiber and at the free edge, were investigated. The effects of mechanical loading, thermal cooldown, and friction were investigated. Each configuration was analyzed for two loadings: longitudinal and normal to the fiber. A nonlinear finite element analysis was performed to model friction and slip at the F/M interface. A new procedure for fitting a square-root singularity to calculated stresses was developed to determine stress intensity factors (K sub I and K sub II) for a bimaterial interface crack. For the case of F/M cracking at a broken fiber with longitudinal loading, crack tip conditions were strongly influenced by interface friction. As a result, an F/M interface toughness test based on this case was not recommended because nonlinear data analysis methods would be required. For the free edge crack configuration, both mechanical and thermal loading caused crack opening, thereby avoiding frictional effects. An F/M interface toughness test based on this configuration would provide data for K(sub I)/K(sub II) ratios of about 0.7 and 1.6 for fiber and radial normal loading, respectively. However, thermal effects must be accounted for in the data analysis.

The effect of aging on the fracture toughness of esthetic restorative materials.

PubMed

Bagheri, Rafat; Azar, Mohammad R; Tyas, Martin J; Burrow, Michael F

2010-06-01

To compare the fracture toughness (KIc) of tooth-colored restorative materials based on a four-point bending; to assess the effect of distilled water and a resin surface sealant (G-Coat Plus) on the resistance of the materials to fracture. Specimens were prepared from six materials: Quix Fil; Dyract (Dentsply), Freedom (SDI), Fuji VII (GC), Fuji IX (GC); Fuji II LC (GC). Fuji II LC and Fuji IX were tested both with and without applying G-Coat Plus (GC). The specimens were divided into the three groups which were conditioned in distilled water at 37 degrees C for 48 hours, 4 and 8 weeks. The specimens were loaded in a four-point bending test using a universal testing machine. The maximum load to specimen failure was recorded and the fracture toughness calculated. There were significant differences among most of the materials (P < 0.001). Quix Fil had the highest mean KIc value and Fuji VII the lowest. Immersion in distilled water for the resin composite and polyacid-modified resin composites caused a significant decrease in KIc as the time interval increased. For glass-ionomer cements, KIc decreased significantly after 4 weeks, and after 8 weeks immersion slightly increased. G-Coat Plus affected Fuji II LC positively while it had no effect on the Fuji IX.

A modified split Hopkinson pressure bar for toughness tests

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Granier, N.; Grunenwald, T.

2006-08-01

In order to characterize material toughness or to study crack arrest under dynamic loading conditions, a new testing device has been developed at CEA/Valduc. A new Split Hopkinson Pressure Bar (SHPB) has been modified: it is now composed of a single incident bar and a double transmitter bar. With this facility, a notched specimen can be loaded under three points bending conditions. Qualification tests with titanium and steel notched samples are presented. Data treatment software has been adapted to estimate the sample deflection as a function of time and treat the energy balance. These results are compared with classical Charpy experiments. Effect of various contact areas between specimen and bars are studied to point out their influence on obtained measurements. The advantage of a “knife” contact compared to a plane one is then clearly demonstrated. All results obtained with this new testing device are in good agreement and show a reduced scattering.

Manufacture of fiber-epoxy test specimens: Including associated jigs and instrumentation

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Mathur, S. B.; Felbeck, D. K.

1980-01-01

Experimental work on the manufacture and strength of graphite-epoxy composites is considered. The correct data and thus a true assessment of the strength properties based on a proper and scientifically modeled test specimen with engineered design, construction, and manufacture has led to claims of a very broad spread in optimized values. Such behavior is in the main due to inadequate control during manufacture of test specimen, improper curing, and uneven scatter in the fiber orientation. The graphite fibers are strong but brittle. Even with various epoxy matrices and volume fraction, the fracture toughness is still relatively low. Graphite-epoxy prepreg tape was investigated as a sandwich construction with intermittent interlaminar bonding between the laminates in order to produce high strength, high fracture toughness composites. The quality and control of manufacture of the multilaminate test specimen blanks was emphasized. The dimensions, orientation and cure must be meticulous in order to produce the desired mix.

Simulations of carbon fiber composite delamination tests

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Kay, G

2007-10-25

Simulations of mode I interlaminar fracture toughness tests of a carbon-reinforced composite material (BMS 8-212) were conducted with LSDYNA. The fracture toughness tests were performed by U.C. Berkeley. The simulations were performed to investigate the validity and practicality of employing decohesive elements to represent interlaminar bond failures that are prevalent in carbon-fiber composite structure penetration events. The simulations employed a decohesive element formulation that was verified on a simple two element model before being employed to perform the full model simulations. Care was required during the simulations to ensure that the explicit time integration of LSDYNA duplicate the near steady-statemore » testing conditions. In general, this study validated the use of employing decohesive elements to represent the interlaminar bond failures seen in carbon-fiber composite structures, but the practicality of employing the elements to represent the bond failures seen in carbon-fiber composite structures during penetration events was not established.« less

Nonlinear mechanics of thermoreversibly associating dendrimer glasses

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Srikanth, Arvind; Hoy, Robert S.; Rinderspacher, Berend C.; Andzelm, Jan W.

2013-10-01

We model the mechanics of associating trivalent dendrimer network glasses with a focus on their energy dissipation properties. Various combinations of sticky bond (SB) strength and kinetics are employed. The toughness (work to fracture) of these systems displays a surprising deformation-protocol dependence; different association parameters optimize different properties. In particular, “strong, slow” SBs optimize strength, while “weak, fast” SBs optimize ductility via self-healing during deformation. We relate these observations to breaking, reformation, and partner switching of SBs during deformation. These studies point the way to creating associating-polymer network glasses with tailorable mechanical properties.

Crack growth through the thickness of thin-sheet Hydrided Zircaloy-4

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Raynaud, Patrick A. C.

In recent years, the limits on fuel burnup have been increased to allow an increase in the amount of energy produced by a nuclear fuel assembly thus reducing waste volume and allowing greater capacity factors. As a result, it is paramount to ensure safety after longer reactor exposure times in the case of design-basis accidents, such as reactivity-initiated accidents (RIA). Previously proposed failure criteria do not directly address the particular cladding failure mechanism during a RIA, in which crack initiation in brittle outer-layers is immediately followed by crack growth through the thickness of the thin-wall tubing. In such a case, the fracture toughness of hydrided thin-wall cladding material must be known for the conditions of through-thickness crack growth in order to predict the failure of high-burnup cladding. The fracture toughness of hydrided Zircaloy-4 in the form of thin-sheet has been examined for the condition of through-thickness crack growth as a function of hydride content and distribution at 25°C, 300°C, and 375°C. To achieve this goal, an experimental procedure was developed in which a linear hydride blister formed across the width of a four-point bend specimen was used to inject a sharp crack that was subsequently extended by fatigue pre-cracking. The electrical potential drop method was used to monitor the crack length during fracture toughness testing, thus allowing for correlation of the load-displacement record with the crack length. Elastic-plastic fracture mechanics were used to interpret the experimental test results in terms of fracture toughness, and J-R crack growth resistance curves were generated. Finite element modeling was performed to adapt the classic theories of fracture mechanics applicable to thick-plate specimens to the case of through-thickness crack growth in thin-sheet materials, and to account for non-uniform crack fronts. Finally, the hydride microstructure was characterized in the vicinity of the crack tip by means of digital image processing, so as to understand the influence of the hydride microstructure on fracture toughness, at the various test temperatures. Crack growth occurred through a microstructure which varied within the thickness of the thin-sheet Zircaloy-4 such that the hydrogen concentration and the radial hydride content decreased with increasing distance from the hydride blister. At 25°C, the fracture toughness was sensitive to the changes in hydride microstructure, such that the toughness KJi decreased from 39 MPa√m to 24 MPa√m with increasing hydrogen content and increasing the fraction of radial hydrides. The hydride particles present in the Zircaloy-4 substrate fractured ahead of the crack tip, and crack growth occurred by linking the crack-tip with the next hydride-induced primary void ahead of it. Unstable crack growth was observed at 25°C prior to any stable crack growth in the specimens where the hydrogen content was the highest. At 375°C as well as in most cases at 300°C, the hydride particles were resistant to cracking and the resistance to crack-growth initiation was very high. As a result, for this bend test procedure, crack extension was solely due to crack-tip blunting instead of crack growth in all tests at 375°C and in most cases at 300°C. The lower bound for fracture toughness at these temperatures, the parameter KJPmax, had values of K JPmax˜54MPa√m at both 300°C and 375°C. For cases where stable crack growth occurred at 300°C, the fracture toughness was K Ji˜58MPa√m and the tearing modulus was twice as high as that at 25°C. It is believed that the failure of hydrided Zircaloy-4 thin-wall cladding can be predicted using fracture mechanics analyses when failure occurs by crack growth. This failure mechanism was observed to occur in all cases at 25°C and in some cases at 300°C. However, at more elevated temperatures, such as 375°C, failure will likely occur by a mechanism other than crack growth, possibly by an imperfection-induced shear instability.

iMatTOUGH: An open-source Matlab-based graphical user interface for pre- and post-processing of TOUGH2 and iTOUGH2 models

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Tran, Anh Phuong; Dafflon, Baptiste; Hubbard, Susan

TOUGH2 and iTOUGH2 are powerful models that simulate the heat and fluid flows in porous and fracture media, and perform parameter estimation, sensitivity analysis and uncertainty propagation analysis. However, setting up the input files is not only tedious, but error prone, and processing output files is time consuming. Here, we present an open source Matlab-based tool (iMatTOUGH) that supports the generation of all necessary inputs for both TOUGH2 and iTOUGH2 and visualize their outputs. The tool links the inputs of TOUGH2 and iTOUGH2, making sure the two input files are consistent. It supports the generation of rectangular computational mesh, i.e.,more » it automatically generates the elements and connections as well as their properties as required by TOUGH2. The tool also allows the specification of initial and time-dependent boundary conditions for better subsurface heat and water flow simulations. The effectiveness of the tool is illustrated by an example that uses TOUGH2 and iTOUGH2 to estimate soil hydrological and thermal properties from soil temperature data and simulate the heat and water flows at the Rifle site in Colorado.« less

iMatTOUGH: An open-source Matlab-based graphical user interface for pre- and post-processing of TOUGH2 and iTOUGH2 models

DOE PAGES

Tran, Anh Phuong; Dafflon, Baptiste; Hubbard, Susan

2016-04-01

TOUGH2 and iTOUGH2 are powerful models that simulate the heat and fluid flows in porous and fracture media, and perform parameter estimation, sensitivity analysis and uncertainty propagation analysis. However, setting up the input files is not only tedious, but error prone, and processing output files is time consuming. Here, we present an open source Matlab-based tool (iMatTOUGH) that supports the generation of all necessary inputs for both TOUGH2 and iTOUGH2 and visualize their outputs. The tool links the inputs of TOUGH2 and iTOUGH2, making sure the two input files are consistent. It supports the generation of rectangular computational mesh, i.e.,more » it automatically generates the elements and connections as well as their properties as required by TOUGH2. The tool also allows the specification of initial and time-dependent boundary conditions for better subsurface heat and water flow simulations. The effectiveness of the tool is illustrated by an example that uses TOUGH2 and iTOUGH2 to estimate soil hydrological and thermal properties from soil temperature data and simulate the heat and water flows at the Rifle site in Colorado.« less

Numerical development of a new correlation between biaxial fracture strain and material fracture toughness for small punch test

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Kumar, Pradeep; Dutta, B. K.; Chattopadhyay, J.

2017-04-01

The miniaturized specimens are used to determine mechanical properties of the materials, such as yield stress, ultimate stress, fracture toughness etc. Use of such specimens is essential whenever limited quantity of material is available for testing, such as aged/irradiated materials. The miniaturized small punch test (SPT) is a technique which is widely used to determine change in mechanical properties of the materials. Various empirical correlations are proposed in the literature to determine the value of fracture toughness (JIC) using this technique. bi-axial fracture strain is determined using SPT tests. This parameter is then used to determine JIC using available empirical correlations. The correlations between JIC and biaxial fracture strain quoted in the literature are based on experimental data acquired for large number of materials. There are number of such correlations available in the literature, which are generally not in agreement with each other. In the present work, an attempt has been made to determine the correlation between biaxial fracture strain (εqf) and crack initiation toughness (Ji) numerically. About one hundred materials are digitally generated by varying yield stress, ultimate stress, hardening coefficient and Gurson parameters. Such set of each material is then used to analyze a SPT specimen and a standard TPB specimen. Analysis of SPT specimen generated biaxial fracture strain (εqf) and analysis of TPB specimen generated value of Ji. A graph is then plotted between these two parameters for all the digitally generated materials. The best fit straight line determines the correlation. It has been also observed that it is possible to have variation in Ji for the same value of biaxial fracture strain (εqf) within a limit. Such variation in the value of Ji has been also ascertained using the graph. Experimental SPT data acquired earlier for three materials were then used to get Ji by using newly developed correlation. A reasonable comparison of calculated Ji with the values quoted in literature confirmed usefulness of the correlation.

Strong synergistic effects in PLA/PCL blends: Impact of PLA matrix viscosity.

PubMed

Ostafinska, Aleksandra; Fortelný, Ivan; Hodan, Jiří; Krejčíková, Sabina; Nevoralová, Martina; Kredatusová, Jana; Kruliš, Zdeněk; Kotek, Jiří; Šlouf, Miroslav

2017-05-01

Blends of two biodegradable polymers, poly(lactic acid) (PLA) and poly(ϵ-caprolactone) (PCL), with strong synergistic improvement in mechanical performance were prepared by melt-mixing using the optimized composition (80/20) and the optimized preparation procedure (a melt-mixing followed by a compression molding) according to our previous study. Three different PLA polymers were employed, whose viscosity decreased in the following order: PLC ≈ PLA1 > PLA2 > PLA3. The blends with the highest viscosity matrix (PLA1/PCL) exhibited the smallest PCL particles (d∼0.6μm), an elastic-plastic stable fracture (as determined from instrumented impact testing) and the strongest synergistic improvement in toughness (>16× with respect to pure PLA, exceeding even the toughness of pure PCL). According to the available literature, this was the highest toughness improvement in non-compatiblized PLA/PCL blends ever achieved. The decrease in the matrix viscosity resulted in an increase in the average PCL particle size and a dramatic decrease in the overall toughness: the completely stable fracture (for PLA1/PCL) changed to the stable fracture followed by unstable crack propagation (for PLA2/PCL) and finally to the completely brittle fracture (for PLA3/PCL). The stiffness of all blends remained at well acceptable level, slightly above the theoretical predictions based on the equivalent box model. Despite several previous studies, the results confirmed that PLA and PCL could behave as compatible polymers, but the final PLA/PCL toughness is extremely sensitive to the PCL particle size distribution, which is influenced by both processing conditions and PLA viscosity. PLA/PCL blends with high stiffness (due to PLA) and toughness (due to PCL) are very promising materials for medical applications, namely for the bone tissue engineering. Copyright © 2017 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

Formulations for Stronger Solid Oxide Fuel-Cell Electrolytes

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Bansal, Narottam P.; Goldsby, John C.; Choi, Sung R.

2004-01-01

Tests have shown that modification of chemical compositions can increase the strengths and fracture toughnesses of solid oxide fuel-cell (SOFC) electrolytes. Heretofore, these solid electrolytes have been made of yttria-stabilized zirconia, which is highly conductive for oxygen ions at high temperatures, as needed for operation of fuel cells. Unfortunately yttria-stabilized zirconia has a high coefficient of thermal expansion, low resistance to thermal shock, low fracture toughness, and low mechanical strength. The lack of strength and toughness are especially problematic for fabrication of thin SOFC electrolyte membranes needed for contemplated aeronautical, automotive, and stationary power-generation applications. The modifications of chemical composition that lead to increased strength and fracture toughness consist in addition of alumina to the basic yttria-stabilized zirconia formulations. Techniques for processing of yttria-stabilized zirconia/alumina composites containing as much as 30 mole percent of alumina have been developed. The composite panels fabricated by these techniques have been found to be dense and free of cracks. The only material phases detected in these composites has been cubic zirconia and a alumina: this finding signifies that no undesired chemical reactions between the constituents occurred during processing at elevated temperatures. The flexural strengths and fracture toughnesses of the various zirconia-alumina composites were measured in air at room temperature as well as at a temperature of 1,000 C (a typical SOFC operating temperature). The measurements showed that both flexural strength and fracture toughness increased with increasing alumina content at both temperatures. In addition, the modulus of elasticity and the thermal conductivity were found to increase and the density to decrease with increasing alumina content. The oxygen-ion conductivity at 1,000 C was found to be unchanged by the addition of alumina.

TOUGH3: A new efficient version of the TOUGH suite of multiphase flow and transport simulators

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Jung, Yoojin; Pau, George Shu Heng; Finsterle, Stefan; Pollyea, Ryan M.

2017-11-01

The TOUGH suite of nonisothermal multiphase flow and transport simulators has been updated by various developers over many years to address a vast range of challenging subsurface problems. The increasing complexity of the simulated processes as well as the growing size of model domains that need to be handled call for an improvement in the simulator's computational robustness and efficiency. Moreover, modifications have been frequently introduced independently, resulting in multiple versions of TOUGH that (1) led to inconsistencies in feature implementation and usage, (2) made code maintenance and development inefficient, and (3) caused confusion to users and developers. TOUGH3-a new base version of TOUGH-addresses these issues. It consolidates both the serial (TOUGH2 V2.1) and parallel (TOUGH2-MP V2.0) implementations, enabling simulations to be performed on desktop computers and supercomputers using a single code. New PETSc parallel linear solvers are added to the existing serial solvers of TOUGH2 and the Aztec solver used in TOUGH2-MP. The PETSc solvers generally perform better than the Aztec solvers in parallel and the internal TOUGH3 linear solver in serial. TOUGH3 also incorporates many new features, addresses bugs, and improves the flexibility of data handling. Due to the improved capabilities and usability, TOUGH3 is more robust and efficient for solving tough and computationally demanding problems in diverse scientific and practical applications related to subsurface flow modeling.

Radiographic and ultrasonic characterization of sintered silicon carbide

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Baaklini, G. Y.; Abel, P. B.

1988-01-01

The capabilities were investigated of projection microfocus X-radiography, ultrasonic velocity and attenuation, and reflection scanning acoustic microscopy for characterizing silicon carbide specimens. Silicon carbide batches covered a range of densities and different microstructural characteristics. Room temperature, four point flexural strength tests were conducted. Fractography was used to identify types, sizes, and locations of fracture origins. Fracture toughness values were calculated from fracture strength and flaw characterization data. Detection capabilities of radiography and acoustic microscopy for fracture-causing flaws were evaluated. Applicability of ultrasonics for verifying material strength and toughness was examined.

Flaw imaging and ultrasonic techniques for characterizing sintered silicon carbide

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Baaklini, George Y.; Abel, Phillip B.

1987-01-01

The capabilities were investigated of projection microfocus x-radiography, ultrasonic velocity and attenuation, and reflection scanning acoustic microscopy for characterizing silicon carbide specimens. Silicon carbide batches covered a range of densities and different microstructural characteristics. Room temperature, four point flexural strength tests were conducted. Fractography was used to identify types, sizes, and locations of fracture origins. Fracture toughness values were calculated from fracture strength and flaw characterization data. Detection capabilities of radiography and acoustic microscopy for fracture-causing flaws were evaluated. Applicability of ultrasonics for verifying material strength and toughness was examined.

Effects of Thermal Aging on Material Properties, Stress Corrosion Cracking, and Fracture Toughness of AISI 316L Weld Metal

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Lucas, Timothy; Forsström, Antti; Saukkonen, Tapio; Ballinger, Ronald; Hänninen, Hannu

2016-08-01

Thermal aging and consequent embrittlement of materials are ongoing issues in cast stainless steels, as well as duplex, and high-Cr ferritic stainless steels. Spinodal decomposition is largely responsible for the well-known "748 K (475 °C) embrittlement" that results in drastic reductions in ductility and toughness in these materials. This process is also operative in welds of either cast or wrought stainless steels where δ-ferrite is present. While the embrittlement can occur after several hundred hours of aging at 748 K (475 °C), the process is also operative at lower temperatures, at the 561 K (288 °C) operating temperature of a boiling water reactor (BWR), for example, where ductility reductions have been observed after several tens of thousands of hours of exposure. An experimental program was carried out in order to understand how spinodal decomposition may affect changes in material properties in Type 316L BWR piping weld metals. The study included material characterization, nanoindentation hardness, double-loop electrochemical potentiokinetic reactivation (DL-EPR), Charpy-V, tensile, SCC crack growth, and in situ fracture toughness testing as a function of δ-ferrite content, aging time, and temperature. SCC crack growth rates of Type 316L stainless steel weld metal under simulated BWR conditions showed an approximate 2 times increase in crack growth rate over that of the unaged as-welded material. In situ fracture toughness measurements indicate that environmental exposure can result in a reduction of toughness by up to 40 pct over the corresponding at-temperature air-tested values. Material characterization results suggest that spinodal decomposition is responsible for the degradation of material properties measured in air, and that degradation of the in situ properties may be a result of hydrogen absorbed during exposure to the high-temperature water environment.

Improved toughness of silicon carbide

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Palm, J. A.

1976-01-01

Impact energy absorbing layers (EALs) comprised of partially densified silicon carbide were formed in situ on fully sinterable silicon carbide substrates. After final sintering, duplex silicon carbide structures resulted which were comprised of a fully sintered, high density silicon carbide substrate or core, overlayed with an EAL of partially sintered silicon carbide integrally bonded to its core member. Thermal cycling tests proved such structures to be moderately resistant to oxidation and highly resistant to thermal shock stresses. The strength of the developed structures in some cases exceeded but essentially it remained the same as the fully sintered silicon carbide without the EAL. Ballistic impact tests indicated that substantial improvements in the toughness of sintered silicon carbide were achieved by the use of the partially densified silicon carbide EALs.

Characterization of the mechanical properties of tough biopolymer fibres from the mussel byssus of Aulacomya ater.

PubMed

Troncoso, O P; Torres, F G; Grande, C J

2008-07-01

Byssus fibres are tough biopolymer fibres produced by mussels to attach themselves to rocks. In this communication, we present the mechanical properties of the byssus from the South American mussel Aulacomya ater which have not been previously reported in the literature. The mechanical properties of the whole threads were assessed by uniaxial tensile tests of dry and hydrated specimens. Elastoplastic and elastomeric stress-strain curves were found for byssal threads from A. ater in the dry and hydrated state, respectively. The results obtained from mechanical tests were modelled using linear, power-law-type and Mooney-Rivlin relationships. These methods for dealing with tensile measurements of mussel byssus have the potential to be used with other stretchy biomaterials.

46 CFR 54.05-16 - Production toughness testing.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2011 CFR

2011-10-01

... tests, the V-notch is to be centered between the fusion lines. For the heat affected zone tests, the... material shall be taken from one of the heats of material used in the vessel, and both the electrodes and... successive tests between the weld metal and heat affected zone. Thus, approximately half of all weld...

46 CFR 54.05-16 - Production toughness testing.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2013 CFR

2013-10-01

... tests, the V-notch is to be centered between the fusion lines. For the heat affected zone tests, the... material shall be taken from one of the heats of material used in the vessel, and both the electrodes and... successive tests between the weld metal and heat affected zone. Thus, approximately half of all weld...

46 CFR 54.05-16 - Production toughness testing.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2012 CFR

2012-10-01

... tests, the V-notch is to be centered between the fusion lines. For the heat affected zone tests, the... material shall be taken from one of the heats of material used in the vessel, and both the electrodes and... successive tests between the weld metal and heat affected zone. Thus, approximately half of all weld...

46 CFR 54.05-16 - Production toughness testing.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2014 CFR

2014-10-01

... tests, the V-notch is to be centered between the fusion lines. For the heat affected zone tests, the... material shall be taken from one of the heats of material used in the vessel, and both the electrodes and... successive tests between the weld metal and heat affected zone. Thus, approximately half of all weld...

Determination of fracture toughness of calcium phosphate coatings deposited onto Ti6Al4V substrate by using indentation technique

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Aydin, Ibrahim; Cetinel, Hakan; Pasinli, Ahmet

2012-09-01

In this study, fracture toughness values of calcium phosphate (CaP) coatings deposited onto Ti6Al4V substrate were determined by using Vickers indentation method. In this new patent holding method, the activation processes were performed with NaOH and NaOH+H2O2 on the Ti6Al4V material surface. Thicknesses of CaP coatings were measured from cross-sections of the samples by using optical microscopy. Vickers indentation tests were performed by using microhardness tester. Young's modulus values of the coatings were determined by using ultra microhardness tester. As a result, fracture toughness (K1C) values of the CaP coatings produced by using two different activation processes, were calculated by using experimental study results. These were found to be 0.43 MPa m1/2 and 0.39 MPa m1/2, respectively. It was determined that the CaP coating on Ti6Al4V activated by NaOH+H2O2 had higher fracture toughness than the CaP coating on Ti6Al4V activated by NaOH.

Microfabrication of a spider-silk analogue through the liquid rope coiling instability

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Gosselin, Frederick P.; Therriault, Daniel; Levesque, Martin

2012-02-01

Spider capture silk outperforms most synthetic materials in terms of specific toughness. We developed a technique to fabricate tough microstructured fibers inspired by the molecular structure of the spider silk protein. To fabricate microfibers (with diameter ˜30μm) with various mechanical properties, we yield the control of their exact geometry to the liquid rope coiling instability. This instability causes a thread of honey to wiggle as it buckles when hitting a surface. Similarly, we flow a filament of viscous polymer solution towards a substrate moving perpendicularly at a slower velocity than the filament flows. The filament buckles repetitively giving rise to periodic meanders and stitch patterns. As the solvent evaporates, the filament solidifies into a fiber with a geometry bestowed by the instability. Microtraction tests performed on fibers show interesting links between the mechanical properties and the instability patterns. Some coiling patterns give rise to high toughness due to the sacrificial bonds created when the viscous filament loops over itself and fuse. The sacrificial bonds in the microstructured fiber play an analogous role to that of the hydrogen bonds present in the molecular structure of the silk protein which give its toughness to spider silk.

PILOT-SCALE EVALUATION OF ENGINEERED BARIER SYSTEMS FOR THE YUCCA MOUNTAIN PROJECT

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

S.W. Webb; J.T. George; R.E. Finley

This paper describes two quarter-scale experiments (1.4 m diameter) and associated numerical analyses on granular backfill engineered barrier systems in support of the Yucca Mountain Project for the potential repository. The two configurations include a sloped capillary barrier and a plain backfill. The tests involve application of dyed water as a constant line infiltration source along the top of the test set-up, monitoring water movement through the test, and measuring water exiting the experiments. A complete water balance estimate is made for each test, and observed water movement is compared with (1) detailed numerical analyses conducted using the TOUGH2 codemore » for unsaturated flow in porous media and (2) posttest observations. The results of the testing and analyses show that for the injection rates and configuration applied, the capillary barrier design diverts a significant amount of all injected water and the TOUGH2 pretest predictions show qualitative and quantitative agreement with the experimental data.« less

Advanced bearing materials for cryogenic aerospace engine turbopump requirements

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Friedman, G.; Bhat, B. N.

1986-01-01

The properties of eleven alloys were investigated to select an improved bearing material for the High Pressure Oxygen Turbo Pump which delivers liquid oxygen to the Space Shuttle Main Engine. The alloys, selected through detailed literature analysis, X 405, MRC-2001, T440V, 14-4/6V, D-5, V-M Pyromet 350, Stellite 3, FerroTic CS-40, Tribaloy 800, WD-65, and CBS-600. The alloys were tested in hardness, corrosion resistance, wear resistance, fatigue resistance, and fracture toughness tests, and their performance was compared with the baseline 440C test alloy. As a result, five alloys were eliminated, leaving the remaining six (X 405, MRC-2001, T440V, 14-4/6V, D-5, and WD-65 to be evaluated in the next phase of NASA tests which will include fracture toughness, rolling contact fatigue, wear resistance, and corrosion resistance. From these, three alloys will be selected, which will be made into ninety bearings for subsequent testing.

Thermoplastic composites for veneering posterior teeth-a feasibility study.

PubMed

Gegauff, Anthony G; Garcia, Jose L; Koelling, Kurt W; Seghi, Robert R

2002-09-01

This pilot study was conducted to explore selected commercially-available thermoplastic composites that potentially had physical properties superior to currently available dental systems for restoring esthetic posterior crowns. Polyurethane, polycarbonate, and poly(ethylene/tetrafluoroethylene) (ETFE) composites and unfilled polyurethane specimens were injection molded to produce shapes adaptive to five standardized mechanical tests. The mechanical testing included abrasive wear rate, yield strength, apparent fracture toughness (strength ratio), flexural strength, and compressive strength. Compared to commercially available dental composites, abrasion wear rates were lower for all materials tested, yield strength was greater for the filled polycarbonates and filled polyurethane resins, fracture toughness testing was invalid (strength ratios were calculated for comparison of the pilot test materials), flexural strength was roughly similar except for the filled ETFE which was significantly greater, and compressive strength was lower. Commercially available thermoplastic resin composites, such as polyurethane, demonstrate the potential for development of an artificial crown material which exceeds the mechanical properties of currently available esthetic systems, if compressive strength can be improved.

Damage Tolerance of Sandwich Plates with Debonded Face Sheets

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Avery, John L., III; Sankar, Bhavani V.

1998-01-01

Axial compression tests were performed on debonded sandwich composites made of graphite/epoxy face-sheets and aramid fiber honeycomb core. The sandwich beams were manufactured using a vacuum baccrin2 process. The face-sheet and the sandwich beam were co-cured. Delamination between one of the face sheets and the core was introduced by using a Teflon layer during the curing process. Axial compression tests were performed to determine the ultimate load carrying capacity of the debonded beams. Flatwise tension tests and Double Cantilever Beam tests were performed to determine. respectively, the strength and fracture toughness of the face-sheet/core interface. From the test results semi-empirical formulas were derived for the fracture toughness and ultimate compressive load carrying capacity in terms of the core density. core thickness. face-sheet thickness and debond length. Four different failure modes and their relation to the structural properties were identified. Linear buckling analysis was found to be inadequate in predicting the compressive load carrying capacity of the debonded sandwich composites.

Influence of Heat Treatment on Fracture Toughness and Wear Resistance of Nicral-Zro2 Multilayered Thermal Barrier Coating

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Ye, Zibo; Wang, Guanghong

2018-04-01

The chemical composition and fracture toughness of thermal barrier coatings (TBCs) before and after heat treatment were characterized, and the cracks around the interface between the coating and the substrate could be successfully eliminated and meanwhile the porosity of the coatings tended to reduce. The XRD analysis revealed the coatings were composed of non-transformable tetragonal t' phase of ZrO2 and γ -(Ni, Cr) with minor Ni3Al (γ') precipitates. Additionally, the relationship between the heat treatment and wear resistance was systematically studied. The results indicated that both the hardness and fracture toughness increased after quenching process. The oxidation wear became more prominent after heat treatment, which probably resulted from the better bonding strength of coatings. Dense and homogeneous microstructure introduced by vacuum oil-quenching improved stabilization of the weight gain during thermal cycle test.

Two-dimensional magnesium oxide nanosheets reinforced epoxy nanocomposites for enhanced fracture toughness

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Balguri, Praveen Kumar; Harris Samuel, D. G.; Guruvishnu, T.; Aditya, D. B.; Mahadevan, S. M.; Thumu, Udayabhaskararao

2018-01-01

Metal oxide nanoparticles have been used as excellent reinforcements to enhance mechanical properties of polymers, natural composites, and ceramics. To date, a major portion of metal oxides used as nanofillers is three dimensional spherical nanoparticles. In the last decade, two-dimensional (2D) materials such as graphene have been widely investigated to improve the mechanical and electrical properties of polymer materials. In this paper, 2D Magnesium oxide (MgO) nanosheets reinforced epoxy composites (0.1, 0.2 and 0.4 wt%) are fabricated and studied for their ability to resist the propagation of preexisting flaw by conducting fracture toughness test for K IC, critical stress intensity factor. This property is an important mechanical property for designing applications in various engineering technologies. Our results show that the MgO with 0.2 wt% is the optimized level to improve the fracture toughness of the epoxy polymer by 47%.

Microstructure and mechanical properties of quenched and tempered 300M steel

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Youngblood, J. L.; Raghavan, M.

1978-01-01

Type 300M steel, which is being used for the landing gear on the space shuttle orbiter, was subjected to a wide range of quenched and tempered heat treatments. The plane-strain fracture toughness and the tensile ultimate and yield strengths were evaluated. Cryogenic mechanical properties were obtained for conventionally heat-treated steel. The microstructure of all heat-treated test coupons was studied both optically and by transmission electron microscopy. Fracture surfaces were studied by means of scanning electron microscopy. Results indicate that substantial improvement in toughness with no loss in strength can be accomplished in quenched and tempered steel by austenitizing at 1255 K or higher. Low fracture toughness in conventionally austenitized 300M steel (1144 K) appears to be caused by undissolved precipitates, seen both in the submicrostructure and on the fracture surface, which promote failure by quasi-cleavage. The precipitates appeared to dissolve in the range 1200 to 1255 K.

Powder metallurgy bearings for advanced rocket engines

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Fleck, J. N.; Killman, B. J.; Munson, H.E.

1985-01-01

Traditional ingot metallurgy was pushed to the limit for many demanding applications including antifriction bearings. New systems require corrosion resistance, better fatigue resistance, and higher toughness. With conventional processing, increasing the alloying level to achieve corrosion resistance results in a decrease in other properties such as toughness. Advanced powder metallurgy affords a viable solution to this problem. During powder manufacture, the individual particle solidifies very rapidly; as a consequence, the primary carbides are very small and uniformly distributed. When properly consolidated, this uniform structure is preserved while generating a fully dense product. Element tests including rolling contact fatigue, hot hardness, wear, fracture toughness, and corrosion resistance are underway on eleven candidate P/M bearing alloys and results are compared with those for wrought 440C steel, the current SSME bearing material. Several materials which offer the promise of a significant improvement in performance were identified.

Characterization of sintered SiC by using NDE

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Baaklini, George Y.

1988-01-01

Capabilities of projection microfocus X-radiography and of ultrasonic velocity and attenuation for characterizing silicon carbide specimens were assessed. Silicon carbide batches covered a range of densities and different microstructural characteristics. Room-temperature, four-point flexural strength tests were conducted. Fractography was used to identify types, sizes, and locations of fracture origins. Fracture toughness values were calculated from fracture strength and flaw characterization data. Detection capabilities of radiography for fracture-causing flaws were evaluated. Applicability of ultrasonics for verifying material strength and toughness was examined. Radiography proved useful in detecting high-density inclusions and isolated voids, but failed in detecting surface and subsurface agglomerates and large grains as fracture origins. Ultrasonic velocity dependency on density was evident. Attenuation dependency on density and mean pore size was clearly demonstrated. Understanding attenuation as a function of toughness was limited by shortcomings in K sub IC determination.

[Microstructure and mechanical property of a new IPS-Empress 2 dental glass-ceramic].

PubMed

Luo, Xiao-ping; Watts, D C; Wilson, N H F; Silsons, N; Cheng, Ya-qin

2005-03-01

To investigate the microstructure and mechanical properties of a new IPS-Empress 2 dental glass-ceramic. AFM, SEM and XRD were used to analyze the microstructure and crystal phase of IPS-Empress 2 glass-ceramic. The flexural strength and fracture toughness were tested using 3-point bending method and indentation method respectively. IPS-Empress 2 glass-ceramic mainly consisted of lithium disilicate crystal, lithium phosphate and glass matrix, which formed a continuous interlocking structure. The crystal phases were not changed before and after hot-pressed treatment. AFM showed nucleating agent particles of different sizes distributed on the highly polished ceramic surface. The strength and fracture toughness were 300 MPa and 3.1 MPam(1/2). The high strength and fracture toughness of IPS-Empress 2 glass ceramic are attributed to the fine lithium disilicate crystalline, interlocking microstructure and crack deflection.

Interlaminar fracture toughness of thermoplastic composites

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Hinkley, J. A.; Johnston, N. J.; Obrien, T. K.

1988-01-01

Edge delamination tension and double cantilever beam tests were used to characterize the interlaminar fracture toughness of continuous graphite-fiber composites made from experimental thermoplastic polyimides and a model thermoplastic. Residual thermal stresses, known to be significant in materials processed at high temperatures, were included in the edge delamination calculations. In the model thermoplastic system (polycarbonate matrix), surface properties of the graphite fiber were shown to be significant. Critical strain energy release rates for two different fibers having similar nominal tensile properties differed by 30 to 60 percent. The reason for the difference is not clear. Interlaminar toughness values for the thermoplastic polyimide composites (LARC-TPI and polyimidesulfone) were 3 to 4 in-lb/sq in. Scanning electron micrographs of the EDT fracture surfaces suggest poor fiber/matrix bonding. Residual thermal stresses account for up to 32 percent of the strain energy release in composites made from these high-temperature resins.

Tough by name, tough by nature.

PubMed

Baillie, Jonathan

2015-04-01

Few beds, one would imagine, could withstand three-quarters of a ton landing on them, but this was the challenge successfully met by a box bed from a furniture manufacturer for challenging behaviour environments, Tough Furniture, when, to reassure a customer that the bed could accommodate 30-stone patients, 13 of the company's staff jumped repeatedly on it to ensure that it would survive intact in a real-world setting. Such testing may seem extreme, but is vital, since much of the company's furniture is destined for environments where patients will abuse, and indeed attempt to destroy, components. As MD David Vesty explained to HEJ editor, Jonathan Baillie, when he visited the company's Shropshire headquarters, it is through manufacturing premium quality cabinet furniture that is both attractive and distinctly non-institutional, but will equally withstand the harshest use, that the company has ensured that its products can live up to the brand name.

46 CFR 56.50-105 - Low-temperature piping.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

2010-10-01

... ASTM E 23 (incorporated by reference, see § 56.01-2), “Notched Bar Impact Testing of Metallic Materials”, Type A, Figure 4. The toughness testing requirements of subpart 54.05 of this subchapter shall be... testing of production weldments for low temperature piping systems and assemblies is not required. (3...

Age-related variation in the mechanical properties of foods processed by Sapajus libidinosus.

PubMed

Chalk, Janine; Wright, Barth W; Lucas, Peter W; Schuhmacher, Katherine D; Vogel, Erin R; Fragaszy, Dorothy; Visalberghi, Elisabetta; Izar, Patrícia; Richmond, Brian G

2016-02-01

The diet of tufted capuchins (Sapajus) is characterized by annual or seasonal incorporation of mechanically protected foods. Reliance on these foods raises questions about the dietary strategies of young individuals that lack strength and experience to access these resources. Previous research has demonstrated differences between the feeding competencies of adult and juvenile tufted capuchins. Here we test the hypothesis that, compared to adults, juveniles will process foods with lower toughness and elastic moduli. We present data on variation in the toughness and elastic modulus of food tissues processed by Sapajus libidinosus during the dry season at Fazenda Boa Vista, Brazil. Food mechanical property data were collected using a portable universal mechanical tester. Results show that food tissues processed by the capuchins showed significant differences in toughness and stiffness. However, we found no relationship between an individual's age and mean or maximum food toughness or elastic modulus, indicating both juvenile and adult S. libidinosus are able to process foods of comparable properties. Although it has been suggested that juveniles avoid mechanically protected foods, age-related differences in feeding competence are not solely due to variation in food toughness or stiffness. Other factors related to food type (e.g., learning complex behavioral sequences, achieving manual dexterity, obtaining physical strength to lift stone tools, or recognizing subtle cues about food state) combined with food mechanical properties better explain variation in juvenile feeding competency. © 2015 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.

Experimental Investigation of the Effect of Hydrogen on Fracture Toughness of 2.25Cr-1Mo-0.25V Steel and Welds after Annealing

PubMed Central

Song, Yan; Chai, Mengyu; Wu, Weijie; Liu, Yilun; Qin, Mu; Cheng, Guangxu

2018-01-01

Hydrogen embrittlement (HE) is a critical issue that hinders the reliability of hydrogenation reactors. Hence, it is of great significance to investigate the effect of hydrogen on fracture toughness of 2.25Cr-1Mo-0.25V steel and weld. In this work, the fracture behavior of 2.25Cr-1Mo-0.25V steel and welds was studied by three-point bending tests under hydrogen-free and hydrogen-charged conditions. The immersion charging method was employed to pre-charge hydrogen inside specimen and the fracture toughness of these joints was evaluated quantitatively. The microstructure and grain size of the specimens were observed by scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and by metallurgical microscopy to investigate the HE mechanisms. It was found that fracture toughness for both the base metal (BM) and the weld zone (WZ) significantly decreased under hydrogen-charged conditions due to the coexistence of the hydrogen-enhanced decohesion (HEDE) and hydrogen-enhanced localized plasticity (HELP) mechanisms. Moreover, the formation and growth of primary voids were observed in the BM, leading to a superior fracture toughness. In addition, the BM compared to the WZ shows superior resistance to HE because the finer grain size in the BM leads to a larger grain boundary area, thus distributing more of the diffusive hydrogen trapped in the grain boundary and reducing the hydrogen content. PMID:29584678

Elastic-plastic fracture mechanics of compact bone

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Yan, Jiahau

Bone is a composite composed mainly of organics, minerals and water. Most studies on the fracture toughness of bone have been conducted at room temperature. Considering that the body temperature of animals is higher than room temperature, and that bone has a high volumetric percentage of organics (generally, 35--50%), the effect of temperature on fracture toughness of bone should be studied. Single-edged V-shaped notched (SEVN) specimens were prepared to measure the fracture toughness of bovine femur and manatee rib in water at 0, 10, 23, 37 and 50°C. The fracture toughness of bovine femur and manatee rib were found to decrease from 7.0 to 4.3 MPa·m1/2 and from 5.5 to 4.1 MPa·m1/2, respectively, over a temperature range of 50°C. The decreases were attributed to inability of the organics to sustain greater stresses at higher temperatures. We studied the effects of water and organics on fracture toughness of bone using water-free and organics-free SEVN specimens at 23°C. Water-free and organics-free specimens were obtained by placing fresh bone specimen in a furnace at different temperatures. Water and organics significantly affected the fracture toughness of bone. Fracture toughness of the water-free specimens was 44.7% (bovine femur) and 32.4% (manatee rib) less than that of fresh-bone specimens. Fracture toughness of the organics-free specimens was 92.7% (bovine femur) and 91.5% (manatee rib) less than that of fresh bone specimens. Linear Elastic Fracture Mechanics (LEFM) is widely used to study bone. However, bone often has small to moderate scale yielding during testing. We used J integral, an elastic-plastic fracture-mechanics parameter, to study the fracture process of bone. The J integral of bovine femur increased from 6.3 KJ/mm2 at 23°C to 6.7 KJ/mm2 at 37°C. Although the fracture toughness of bovine bone decreases as the temperature increases, the J integral results show a contrary trend. The energy spent in advancing the crack beyond the linear-elastic deformation was much greater than the energy spent in linear-elastic deformation. This could be because bone has at least four toughening mechanisms and a high volumetric percentage of organics (approximately 42% for bovine femur). The J integral is shown to better describe the fracture process of bovine femur and manatee rib.

Biodegradable blends of poly (lactic acid) (PLA) / polyhydroxybutrate (PHB) copolymer and its effects on rheological, thermal and mechanical properties

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Sood, Nitin K.

Poly (Lactic acid) is the most important plastic derived from the renewable resources. PLA based products have extensively been used in the medical industry. However, PLA has a few disadvantages such as inherent brittleness and low toughness despite a high modulus. A focus of this experiment was to study the improvement in toughness of PLA and to study the changes in thermal and rheological properties by blending PLA with a PHB copolymer. Where, PLA and PHB copolymer were melt blended using a twin screw Brabender extruder in the ratios of 100/0, 70/30, 50/50, 30/70, 0/100. Further, the blends were injection molded into tensile bar and impact bars for mechanical testing. Rheological properties were studied using a Galaxy capillary rheometer for melt viscosities and temperature dependence indicated a shear-thinning behavior along with power law model and consistency index. Blends were characterized to study the phase model using a differential scanning calorimetric (DSC), showed two separate phases. Mechanical properties were analyzed using a Tensile and Izod impact test indicating decrease in elastic modulus with increase in toughness and elongation as the PHB copolymer content was increased in the blend.

Fracture toughness in Mode I (GIC) for ductile adhesives

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Gálvez, P.; Carbas, RJC; Campilho, RDSG; Abenojar, J.; Martínez, MA; Silva LFM, da

2017-05-01

Works carried out in this publication belong to a project that seeks the replacement of welded joints by adhesive joints at stress concentration nodes in bus structures. Fracture toughness in Mode I (GIC) has been measured for two different ductile adhesives, SikaTack Drive and SikaForce 7720. SikaTack Drive is a single-component polyurethane adhesive with high viscoelasticity (more than 100%), whose main use is the car-glass joining and SikaForce 7720 is double-component structural polyurethane adhesive. Experimental works have been carried out from the test called Double Cantilever Beam (DCB), using two steel beams as adherents and an adhesive thickness according to the problem posed in the Project, of 2 and 3 mm for SikaForce 7720 and SikaTack Drive, respectively. Three different methods have been used for measuring the fracture toughness in mode I (GIC) from the values obtained in the experimental DCB procedure for each adhesive: Corrected Beam Theory (CBT), Compliance Calibration Method (CCM) and Compliance Based Beam Method (CBBM). Four DCB specimens have been tested for each adhesive. Dispersion of each GIC calculation method for each adhesive has been studied. Likewise variations between the three different methods have been also studied for each adhesive.

Improved Strength and Toughness of Carbon Woven Fabric Composites with Functionalized MWCNTs

PubMed Central

Soliman, Eslam; Kandil, Usama; Reda Taha, Mahmoud

2014-01-01

This investigation examines the role of carboxyl functionalized multi-walled carbon nanotubes (COOH-MWCNTs) in the on- and off-axis flexure and the shear responses of thin carbon woven fabric composite plates. The chemically functionalized COOH-MWCNTs were used to fabricate epoxy nanocomposites and, subsequently, carbon woven fabric plates to be tested on flexure and shear. In addition to the neat epoxy, three loadings of COOH-MWCNTs were examined: 0.5 wt%, 1.0 wt% and 1.5 wt% of epoxy. While no significant statistical difference in the flexure response of the on-axis specimens was observed, significant increases in the flexure strength, modulus and toughness of the off-axis specimens were observed. The average increase in flexure strength and flexure modulus with the addition of 1.5 wt% COOH-MWCNTs improved by 28% and 19%, respectively. Finite element modeling is used to demonstrate fiber domination in on-axis flexure behavior and matrix domination in off-axis flexure behavior. Furthermore, the 1.5 wt% COOH-MWCNTs increased the toughness of carbon woven composites tested on shear by 33%. Microstructural investigation using Fourier Transform Infrared Spectroscopy (FTIR) proves the existence of chemical bonds between the COOH-MWCNTs and the epoxy matrix. PMID:28788698

Comparison of Mental Toughness and Power Test Performances in High-Level Kickboxers by Competitive Success.

PubMed

Slimani, Maamer; Miarka, Bianca; Briki, Walid; Cheour, Foued

2016-06-01

Kickboxing is a high-intensity intermittent striking combat sport, which is characterized by complex skills and tactical key actions with short duration. The present study compared and verified the relationship between mental toughness (MT), countermovement jump (CMJ) and medicine ball throw (MBT) power tests by outcomes of high-level kickboxers during National Championship. Thirty two high-level male kickboxers (winner = 16 and loser = 16: 21.2 ± 3.1 years, 1.73 ± 0.07 m, and 70.2 ± 9.4 kg) were analyzed using the CMJ, MBT tests and sports mental toughness questionnaire (SMTQ; based in confidence, constancy and control subscales), before the fights of the 2015 national championship (16 bouts). In statistical analysis, Mann-Withney test and a multiple linear regression were used to compare groups and to observe relationships, respectively, P ≤ 0.05. The present results showed significant differences between losers vs. winners, respectively, of total MT (7(7;8) vs. 11(10.2;11), confidence (3(3;3) vs. 4(4;4)), constancy (2(2;2) vs. 3(3;3)), control (2(2;3) vs. 4(4;4)) subscales and MBT (4.1(4;4.3) vs. 4.6(4.4;4.8)). The multiple linear regression showed a strong associations between MT results and outcome (r = 0.89), MBT (r = 0.84) and CMJ (r = 0.73). The findings suggest that MT will be more predictive of performance in those sports and in the outcome of competition.

Flexural strength and reliability of monolithic and trilayer ceramic structures obtained by the CAD-on technique.

PubMed

Basso, G R; Moraes, R R; Borba, M; Griggs, J A; Della Bona, A

2015-12-01

To evaluate the flexural strength, Weibull modulus, fracture toughness, and failure behavior of ceramic structures obtained by the CAD-on technique, testing the null hypothesis that trilayer structures show similar properties to monolithic structures. Bar-shaped (1.8mm×4mm×16mm) monolithic specimens of zirconia (IPS e.max ZirCAD - Ivoclar Vivadent) and trilayer specimens of zirconia/fusion ceramic/lithium dissilicate (IPS e.max ZirCAD/IPS e.max CAD Crystall./Connect/IPS e.max CAD, Ivoclar Vivadent) were fabricated (n=30). Specimens were tested in flexure in 37°C deionized water using a universal testing machine at a crosshead speed of 0.5mm/min. Failure loads were recorded, and the flexural strength values were calculated. Fractography principles were used to examine the fracture surfaces under optical and scanning electron microscopy. Data were statistically analyzed using Student's t-test and Weibull statistics (α=0.05). Monolithic and trilayer specimens showed similar mean flexural strengths, characteristic strengths, and Weibull moduli. Trilayer structures showed greater mean critical flaw and fracture toughness values than monolithic specimens (p<0.001). Most critical flaws in the trilayer groups were located on the Y-TZP surface subjected to tension and propagated catastrophically. Trilayer structures showed no flaw deflection at the interface. Considering the CAD-on technique, the trilayer structures showed greater fracture toughness than the monolithic zirconia specimens. Copyright © 2015 Academy of Dental Materials. Published by Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

Influence of Mixed Mode I-Mode II Loading on Fatigue Delamination Growth Characteristics of a Graphite Epoxy Tape Laminate

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Ratcliffe, James G.; Johnston, William M., Jr.

2014-01-01

Mixed mode I-mode II interlaminar tests were conducted on IM7/8552 tape laminates using the mixed-mode bending test. Three mixed mode ratios, G(sub II)/G(sub T) = 0.2, 0.5, and 0.8, were considered. Tests were performed at all three mixed-mode ratios under quasi-static and cyclic loading conditions, where the former static tests were used to determine initial loading levels for the latter fatigue tests. Fatigue tests at each mixed-mode ratio were performed at four loading levels, Gmax, equal to 0.5G(sub c), 0.4G(sub c), 0.3G(sub c), and 0.2G(sub c), where G(sub c) is the interlaminar fracture toughness of the corresponding mixed-mode ratio at which a test was performed. All fatigue tests were performed using constant-amplitude load control and delamination growth was automatically documented using compliance solutions obtained from the corresponding quasi-static tests. Static fracture toughness data yielded a mixed-mode delamination criterion that exhibited monotonic increase in Gc with mixed-mode ratio, G(sub II)/G(sub T). Fatigue delamination onset parameters varied monotonically with G(sub II)/G(sub T), which was expected based on the fracture toughness data. Analysis of non-normalized data yielded a monotonic change in Paris law exponent with mode ratio. This was not the case when normalized data were analyzed. Fatigue data normalized by the static R-curve were most affected in specimens tested at G(sub II)/G(sub T)=0.2 (this process has little influence on the other data). In this case, the normalized data yielded a higher delamination growth rate compared to the raw data for a given loading level. Overall, fiber bridging appeared to be the dominant mechanism, affecting delamination growth rates in specimens tested at different load levels and differing mixed-mode ratios.

Understanding mental toughness in Australian soccer: perceptions of players, parents, and coaches.

PubMed

Coulter, Tristan J; Mallett, Clifford J; Gucciardi, Daniel F

2010-05-01

We explored mental toughness in soccer using a triangulation of data capture involving players (n = 6), coaches (n = 4), and parents (n = 5). Semi-structured interviews, based on a personal construct psychology (Kelly, 1955/1991) framework, were conducted to elicit participants' perspectives on the key characteristics and their contrasts, situations demanding mental toughness, and the behaviours displayed and cognitions employed by mentally tough soccer players. The results from the research provided further evidence that mental toughness is conceptually distinct from other psychological constructs such as hardiness. The findings also supported Gucciardi, Gordon, and Dimmock's (2009) process model of mental toughness. A winning mentality and desire was identified as a key attribute of mentally tough soccer players in addition to other previously reported qualities such as self-belief, physical toughness, work ethic/motivation, and resilience. Key cognitions reported by mentally tough soccer players enabled them to remain focused and competitive during training and matches and highlighted the adoption of several forms of self-talk in dealing with challenging situations. Minor revisions to Gucciardi and colleagues' definition of mental toughness are proposed.

Influence of fibre and filler reinforcement of plastic brackets: an in vitro study.

PubMed

Faltermeier, Andreas; Rosentritt, Martin; Faltermeier, Rupert; Müssig, Dieter

2007-06-01

In spite of their popularity in fulfilling aesthetic requirements, plastic brackets still present some disadvantages because of their low elastic modulus, decreased fracture toughness, and reduced wear resistance. Fibre-reinforced composites are well established in dentistry and consist of a polymer matrix in which reinforcing fibres are embedded. Stress is transferred from the polymer matrix to the fibres which present a high tensile strength. Hence, the mechanical properties of polymers could be improved. The purpose of this study was to compare fracture strength, fracture toughness and flexural strength of an experimental fibre-reinforced bracket material, an SiO(2) filler-reinforced bracket and an unfilled plastic bracket material (control group). Experimental brackets and specialized bars were manufactured. Tests were performed after thermal cycling (5 degrees C/55 degrees C) the samples in an artificial oral environment of a device to simulate mastication. Statistical evaluation was undertaken. The median, 25th and 75th percentiles were calculated and a Mann-Whitney U-test was performed. In this study two findings were obvious. (1) Filler reinforcement of plastic brackets improved fracture strength and fracture toughness in comparison with the unfilled bracket material. (2) Glass fibre reinforcement of orthodontic bracket materials resulted in the greatest enhancement of the mechanical properties in comparison with the other test groups. Therefore, the application of glass fibres in plastic brackets is a successful method to enhance fracture strength.

Spatial distribution of the human enamel fracture toughness with aging.

PubMed

Zheng, Qinghua; Xu, Haiping; Song, Fan; Zhang, Lan; Zhou, Xuedong; Shao, Yingfeng; Huang, Dingming

2013-10-01

A better understanding of the fracture toughness (KIC) of human enamel and the changes induced by aging is important for the clinical treatment of teeth cracks and fractures. We conducted microindentation tests and chemical content measurements on molar teeth from "young" (18 ≤ age ≤ 25) and "old" (55 ≤ age) patients. The KIC and the mineral contents (calcium and phosphorus) in the outer, the middle, and the inner enamel layers within the cuspal and the intercuspal regions of the crown were measured through the Vickers toughness test and Energy Dispersive X-Ray Spectroscopy (EDS), respectively. The elastic modulus used for the KIC calculation was measured through atomic force microscope (AFM)-based nanoindentation tests. In the outer enamel layer, two direction-specific values of the KIC were calculated separately (direction I, crack running parallel to the occlusal surface; direction II, perpendicular to direction I). The mean KIC of the outer enamel layer was lower than that of the internal layers (p<0.05). No other region-related differences in the mechanical properties were found in both groups. In the outer enamel layer, old enamel has a lower KIC, II and higher mineral contents than young enamel (p<0.05). The enamel surface becomes more prone to cracks with aging partly due to the reduction in the interprismatic organic matrix observed with the maturation of enamel. Copyright © 2013 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

Fracture Analysis of MWCNT/Epoxy Nanocomposite Film Deposited on Aluminum Substrate.

PubMed

Her, Shiuh-Chuan; Chien, Pao-Chu

2017-04-13

Multi-walled carbon nanotube (MWCNT) reinforced epoxy films were deposited on an aluminum substrate by a hot-pressing process. Three-point bending tests were performed to determine the Young's modulus of MWCNT reinforced nanocomposite films. Compared to the neat epoxy film, nanocomposite film with 1 wt % of MWCNT exhibits an increase of 21% in the Young's modulus. Four-point-bending tests were conducted to investigate the fracture toughness of the MWCNT/epoxy nanocomposite film deposited on an aluminum substrate with interfacial cracks. Based on the Euler-Bernoulli beam theory, the strain energy in a film/substrate composite beam is derived. The difference of strain energy before and after the propagation of the interfacial crack are calculated, leading to the determination of the strain energy release rate. Experimental test results show that the fracture toughness of the nanocomposite film deposited on the aluminum substrate increases with the increase in the MWCNT content.

Identification of delamination failure of boride layer on common Cr-based steels

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Taktak, Sukru; Tasgetiren, Suleyman

2006-10-01

Adhesion is an important aspect in the reliability of coated components. With low-adhesion of interfaces, different crack paths may develop depending on the local stress field at the interface and the fracture toughness of the coating, substrate, and interface. In the current study, an attempt has been made to identify the delamination failure of coated Cr-based steels by boronizing. For this reason, two commonly used steels (AISI H13, AISI 304) are considered. The steels contain 5.3 and 18.3 wt.% Cr, respectively. Boriding treatment is carried out in a slurry salt bath consisting of borax, boric acid, and ferrosilicon at a temperature range of 800 950 °C for 3, 5, and 7 h. The general properties of the boron coating are obtained by mechanical and metallographic characterization tests. For identification of coating layer failure, some fracture toughness tests and the Daimler-Benz Rockwell-C adhesion test are used.

Solid Insulated Switchgear and Investigation of its Mechanical and Electrical Reliability

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Sato, Junichi; Kinoshita, Susumu; Sakaguchi, Osamu; Miyagawa, Masaru; Shimizu, Toshio; Homma, Mitsutaka

SF6 gas is applied widely to medium voltage switchgear because of its high insulation reliability and down-sizing ability. However, SF6 gas was placed on the list of greenhouse gases under the Kyoto Protocol in 1997. Since then, the investigation and development concerning SF6-free or less has carried out activity. Therefore, we paid attention to the solid material which has higher dielectric strength than SF6, and we have newly developed solid insulated switchgear (SIS) achieved by molding all main circuit. A new epoxy casting material is applied, which contains a great deal of spherical silica and a small amount of rubber particles. This new material has the high mechanical strength, high thermal resistance, high toughness, and also high dielectric strength because of directly molding the vacuum bottle, down-sizing and reliability. This paper describes about the technology of a new epoxy casting material which achieves the SIS. In addition, the mechanical and electrical reliability test of SIS applied a new epoxy resin are carried out, and effectiveness of the development material and the mechanical and electrical reliability of SIS are verified.

Mental Toughness Moderates Social Loafing in Cycle Time-Trial Performance.

PubMed

Haugen, Tommy; Reinboth, Michael; Hetlelid, Ken J; Peters, Derek M; Høigaard, Rune

2016-09-01

The purpose of this study was to determine if mental toughness moderated the occurrence of social loafing in cycle time-trial performance. Twenty-seven men (Mage = 17.7 years, SD = 0.6) completed the Sport Mental Toughness Questionnaire prior to completing a 1-min cycling trial under 2 conditions: once with individual performance identified, and once in a group with individual performance not identified. Using a median split of the mental toughness index, participants were divided into high and low mental toughness groups. Cycling distance was compared using a 2 (trial) × 2 (high-low mental toughness) analysis of variance. We hypothesized that mentally tough participants would perform equally well under both conditions (i.e., no indication of social loafing) compared with low mentally tough participants, who would perform less well when their individual performance was not identifiable (i.e., demonstrating the anticipated social loafing effect). The high mental toughness group demonstrated consistent performance across both conditions, while the low mental toughness group reduced their effort in the non-individually identifiable team condition. The results confirm that (a) clearly identifying individual effort/performance is an important situational variable that may impact team performance and (b) higher perceived mental toughness has the ability to negate the tendency to loaf.

Mental toughness in sport: motivational antecedents and associations with performance and psychological health.

PubMed

Mahoney, John W; Gucciardi, Daniel F; Ntoumanis, Nikos; Mallett, Cliff J; Mallet, Cliff J

2014-06-01

We argue that basic psychological needs theory (BPNT) offers impetus to the value of mental toughness as a mechanism for optimizing human functioning. We hypothesized that psychological needs satisfaction (thwarting) would be associated with higher (lower) levels of mental toughness, positive affect, and performance and lower (higher) levels of negative affect. We also expected that mental toughness would be associated with higher levels of positive affect and performance and lower levels of negative affect. Further, we predicted that coaching environments would be related to mental toughness indirectly through psychological needs and that psychological needs would indirectly relate with performance and affect through mental toughness. Adolescent cross-country runners (136 male and 85 female, M(age) = 14.36) completed questionnaires pertaining to BPNT variables, mental toughness, and affect. Race times were also collected. Our findings supported our hypotheses. We concluded that BPNT is generative in understanding some of the antecedents and consequences of mental toughness and is a novel framework useful for understanding mental toughness.

Determination of ultra-short laser induced damage threshold of KH{sub 2}PO{sub 4} crystal: Numerical calculation and experimental verification

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Cheng, Jian; Department of Physics, The Ohio State University, 191 W. Woodruff Ave, Columbus, OH 43210; Chen, Mingjun, E-mail: chenmj@hit.edu.cn, E-mail: chowdhury.24@osu.edu

Rapid growth and ultra-precision machining of large-size KDP (KH{sub 2}PO{sub 4}) crystals with high laser damage resistance are tough challenges in the development of large laser systems. It is of high interest and practical significance to have theoretical models for scientists and manufacturers to determine the laser-induced damage threshold (LIDT) of actually prepared KDP optics. Here, we numerically and experimentally investigate the laser-induced damage on KDP crystals in ultra-short pulse laser regime. On basis of the rate equation for free electron generation, a model dedicated to predicting the LIDT is developed by considering the synergistic effect of photoionization, impact ionizationmore » and decay of electrons. Laser damage tests are performed to measure the single-pulse LIDT with several testing protocols. The testing results combined with previously reported experimental data agree well with those calculated by the model. By taking the light intensification into consideration, the model is successfully applied to quantitatively evaluate the effect of surface flaws inevitably introduced in the preparation processes on the laser damage resistance of KDP crystals. This work can not only contribute to further understanding of the laser damage mechanisms of optical materials, but also provide available models for evaluating the laser damage resistance of exquisitely prepared optical components used in high power laser systems.« less

A New Femtosecond Laser-Based Three-Dimensional Tomography Technique

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Echlin, McLean P.

2011-12-01

Tomographic imaging has dramatically changed science, most notably in the fields of medicine and biology, by producing 3D views of structures which are too complex to understand in any other way. Current tomographic techniques require extensive time both for post-processing and data collection. Femtosecond laser based tomographic techniques have been developed in both standard atmosphere (femtosecond laser-based serial sectioning technique - FSLSS) and in vacuum (Tri-Beam System) for the fast collection (10 5mum3/s) of mm3 sized 3D datasets. Both techniques use femtosecond laser pulses to selectively remove layer-by-layer areas of material with low collateral damage and a negligible heat affected zone. To the authors knowledge, femtosecond lasers have never been used to serial section and these techniques have been entirely and uniquely developed by the author and his collaborators at the University of Michigan and University of California Santa Barbara. The FSLSS was applied to measure the 3D distribution of TiN particles in a 4330 steel. Single pulse ablation morphologies and rates were measured and collected from literature. Simultaneous two-phase ablation of TiN and steel matrix was shown to occur at fluences of 0.9-2 J/cm2. Laser scanning protocols were developed minimizing surface roughness to 0.1-0.4 mum for laser-based sectioning. The FSLSS technique was used to section and 3D reconstruct titanium nitride (TiN) containing 4330 steel. Statistical analysis of 3D TiN particle sizes, distribution parameters, and particle density were measured. A methodology was developed to use the 3D datasets to produce statistical volume elements (SVEs) for toughness modeling. Six FSLSS TiN datasets were sub-sampled into 48 SVEs for statistical analysis and toughness modeling using the Rice-Tracey and Garrison-Moody models. A two-parameter Weibull analysis was performed and variability in the toughness data agreed well with Ruggieri et al. bulk toughness measurements. The Tri-Beam system combines the benefits of laser based material removal (speed, low-damage, automated) with detectors that collect chemical, structural, and topological information. Multi-modal sectioning information was collected after many laser scanning passes demonstrating the capability of the Tri-Beam system.

HP9-4-.30 weld properties and microstructure

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Watt, George W.

1991-01-01

HP9-4-.30, ultra high strength steel, the case material for the Advanced Solid Rocket Motor (ASRM), must exhibit acceptable strength, ductility, toughness, and stress corrosion cracking (SCC) resistance after welding and a local post weld heat treatment (PWHT). Testing, to date, shows that the base metal (BM) properties are more than adequate for the anticipated launch loads. Tensile tests of test specimens taken transverse to the weld show that the weld metal overmatches the BM even in the PWHT condition. However, that is still some question about the toughness and SCC resistance of the weld metal in the as welded and post weld heat treated condition. To help clarify the as welded and post weld heat treated mechanical behavior of the alloy, subsize tensile specimens from the BM, the fusion zone (FZ) with and without PWHT, and the heat affected zone (HAZ) with and without PWHT were tested to failure and the fracture surfaces subsequently examined with a scanning electron microscope. Results are given and briefly discussed.

Synthesis and Characterization of a Polyimide-Epoxy Composite for Dental Applications

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Yang, An; Xu, Chun

2018-03-01

Epoxy (EP) resins have been employed in dentistry for years, but their intrinsic brittleness demands a reinforcement to make them an ideal dental material that combines strength, toughness, and aesthetics. In this study, an EP resin was reinforced with a low-molecular-weight polyimide (PI). The PI/EP composites were subjected to three-point bending tests and examined by the scanning electron microscopy. It was found that blending PI with EP in proper proportions strengthened EP without sacrificing its toughness. The PI/EP composite could be employed in dentistry as the matrix of fiber-reinforced dental root canal posts.

Factors affecting miniature Izod impact strength of tungsten-fiber-metal-matrix

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Winsa, E. A.; Petrasek, D. W.

1973-01-01

The miniature Izod and Charpy impact strengths of copper, copper-nickel, and nickel-base superalloy uniaxially reinforced with continuous tungsten fibers were studied. In most cases, impact strength was increased by increasing fiber or matrix toughness, decreasing fibermatrix reaction, increasing test temperature, hot working, or heat treating. Notch sensitivity was reduced by increasing fiber content or matrix toughness. An equation relating impact strength to fiber and matrix properties and fiber content was developed. Program results imply that tungsten alloy-fiber/superalloy matrix composites can be made with adequate impact resistance for turbine blade or vane applications.

Controlled crack shapes for indentation fracture of soda-lime glass

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Smith, S.M.; Scattergood, R.O.

1992-01-01

Radial cracks for indented soda-lime glass aged in distilled water were highly elliptical because of truncation by lateral cracks. Indentation in silicone oil minimized radial/lateral crack interaction but still produced cracks having nominally constant ellipticity during bend testing. Analysis of applied stress/indentation crack length data using stress intensity factors based on half-penny crack shape resulted in apparent R-curve behavior and/or overestimation of the fracture toughness. Incorporation of elliptical shape factors eliminated the R-curve behavior and reduced measured toughness to near the accepted value for soda-lime glass.

Mechanical properties and three-body wear of dental restoratives and their comparative flowable materials.

PubMed

Schultz, Sabine; Rosentritt, Martin; Behr, Michael; Handel, Gerhard

2010-01-01

To compare wear performance and resistance to crack propagation (K1C) of commercial restorative materials and their flowable variations. A potential correlation between three-body wear and fracture toughness, modulus of elasticity, fracture work, Vickers hardness, and filler content was investigated. Seven restoratives (five composites, one ormocer, and one compomer) and their corresponding flowable materials were used to determine and compare the three-body wear with a bolus of millet-seed shells and rice food (Willytec). The wear characteristics were measured by profilometry after 50,000, 100,000, 150,000, and 200,000 loading cycles. The fracture toughness value, K1C (MPam1/2), for each single-edged notched specimen was measured in a three-point bending test (universal testing machine 1446, Zwick). Fracture work and modulus of elasticity were calculated from the load curves. Vickers hardness was measured (HV hardness tester, Zwick) according to DIN 50133. The veneering composite Sinfony (3M ESPE) was used as a reference material. Heavily filled composites experienced less wear than their flowable variations. The nanofiller composites revealed better wear results than hybrid composites, compomers, and ormocers. After 200,000 load cycles, the lowest wear rates were detected for Grandio (14 microm; Voco), and the highest mean values were found for Dyract AP (104 microm; Dentsply DeTrey). The values for fracture toughness (K1C) ranged from 0.82 to 3.64 MPam1/2. Highest K1C data was exhibited by the nanocomposite Nanopaq (Schutz Dental). All tested restorative materials exhibited higher fracture toughness than their low-viscosity variations. The wear resistance of the newer generation composites with incorporated nanofiller or microfiller particles increased to a high extent. Flowables show less resistance against wear and crack propagation because of their lower filler content. The reduced mechanical properties limit their use as a restorative to small noncontact, low-stress clinical situations.

EVALUATION OF THE MECHANICAL PROPERTIES OF 9NI-4CO FORGINGS.

DTIC Science & Technology

FORGING, MECHANICAL PROPERTIES, STEEL , QUENCHING, SPECIFICATIONS, TENSILE PROPERTIES, COMPRESSIVE PROPERTIES, FATIGUE(MECHANICS), TOUGHNESS, STRESS...CORROSION, THERMAL STABILITY, STRAIN(MECHANICS), BAINITE , TEST METHODS, HEAT TREATMENT, CRACK PROPAGATION.

Heritability of Lumbar Trabecular Bone Mechanical Properties in Baboons

PubMed Central

Havill, L.M.; Allen, M.R.; Bredbenner, T.L.; Burr, D.B.; Nicolella, D.P.; Turner, C.H.; Warren, D.M.; Mahaney, M.C.

2010-01-01

Genetic effects on mechanical properties have been demonstrated in rodents, but not confirmed in primates. Our aim was to quantify the proportion of variation in vertebral trabecular bone mechanical properties that is due to the effects of genes. L3 vertebrae were collected from 110 females and 46 male baboons (6–32 years old) from a single extended pedigree. Cranio-caudally oriented trabecular bone cores were scanned with microCT then tested in monotonic compression to determine apparent ultimate stress, modulus, and toughness. Age and sex effects and heritability (h2) were assessed using maximum likelihood-based variance components methods. Additive effects of genes on residual trait variance were significant for ultimate stress (h2=0.58), toughness (h2=0.64), and BV/TV (h2=0.55). When BV/TV was accounted for, the residual variance in ultimate stress accounted for by the additive effects of genes was no longer significant. Toughness, however, showed evidence of a non-BV/TV-related genetic effect. Overall, maximum stress and modulus show strong genetic effects that are nearly entirely due to bone volume. Toughness shows strong genetic effects related to bone volume and shows additional genetic effects (accounting for 10% of the total trait variance) that are independent of bone volume. These results support continued use of bone volume as a focal trait to identify genes related to skeletal fragility, but also show that other focal traits related to toughness and variation in the organic component of bone matrix will enhance our ability to find additional genes that are particularly relevant to fatigue-related fractures. PMID:19900599

Goal Profiles, Mental Toughness and its Influence on Performance Outcomes among Wushu Athletes

PubMed Central

Roy, Jolly

2007-01-01

This study examined the association between goal orientations and mental toughness and its influence on performance outcomes in competition. Wushu athletes (n = 40) competing in Intervarsity championships in Malaysia completed Task and Ego Orientations in Sport Questionnaire (TEOSQ) and Psychological Performance Inventory (PPI). Using cluster analysis techniques including hierarchical methods and the non-hierarchical method (k-means cluster) to examine goal profiles, a three cluster solution emerged viz. cluster 1 - high task and moderate ego (HT/ME), cluster 2 - moderate task and low ego (MT/LE) and, cluster 3 - moderate task and moderate ego (MT/ME). Analysis of the fundamental areas of mental toughness based on goal profiles revealed that athletes in cluster 1 scored significantly higher on negative energy control than athletes in cluster 2. Further, athletes in cluster 1 also scored significantly higher on positive energy control than athletes in cluster 3. Chi-square (χ2) test revealed no significant differences among athletes with different goal profiles on performance outcomes in the competition. However, significant differences were observed between athletes (medallist and non medallist) in self- confidence (p = 0.001) and negative energy control (p = 0.042). Medallist’s scored significantly higher on self-confidence (mean = 21.82 ± 2.72) and negative energy control (mean = 19.59 ± 2.32) than the non-medallists (self confidence-mean = 18.76 ± 2.49; negative energy control mean = 18.14 ± 1.91). Key points Mental toughness can be influenced by certain goal profile combination. Athletes with successful outcomes in performance (medallist) displayed greater mental toughness. PMID:24198700

The effect of aging treatment on the fracture toughness and impact strength of injection molded Ni-625 superalloy parts

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Özgün, Özgür, E-mail: oozgun@bingol.edu.tr; Yılmaz, Ramazan; Özkan Gülsoy, H.

In this study, the effect of aging heat treatment on fracture toughness and impact strength of Ni-625 superalloy fabricated by using powder injection molding (PIM) method was examined. After a feedstock was prepared by mixing the prealloyed Ni-625 superalloy powder, which was fabricated by gas atomisation, with a polymeric binder system and then it was granulated, it was shaped through the use of injection. The molded specimens were sintered at 1300 °C for 3 h after a two-stage debinding process. Once the sintered specimens were treated in the solution at 1150 °C for 2 h, they were quenched. Aging treatmentmore » was performed by keeping specimens at 745 °C for 22 h. Fracture toughness and impact tests were performed on sintered and aged specimens. Microstructure examinations were performed by using optical microscope, scanning electron microscope, and transmission electron microscope. The results revealed that aging heat treatment led to the formation of some carbides and intermetallic phases in the microstructure. While the hardness of the aged specimens increased due to these phases, their fracture toughness and impact strength values decreased. - Highlights: • Ni-625 superalloy components were produced by means of powder injection molding. • The produced components were subjected to aging treatment. • Aging process provided approximately 50% increase in the hardness of components. • Intermetallic precipitates, carbides and TCP phases occurred within the aged parts. • Fracture toughness and impact strength values decreased due to the hard phases.« less

One-Step Quenching and Partitioning Heat Treatment of Medium Carbon Low Alloy Steel

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Tariq, Fawad; Baloch, Rasheed Ahmed

2014-05-01

This paper presents the results of novel one-step quenching and partitioning (Q&P) heat treatment conducted on medium carbon low alloy steel sheet. Samples were austenitised at 1193 K followed by interrupted quenching at 473 K for different partitioning times and finally they were quenched in water. Dilatometry was employed for selection of treatment temperatures. Optical and scanning electron microscopy was carried out to examine the microstructural changes. Volume fraction of retained austenite was measured by x-ray diffraction technique. Resulting microstructures were correlated with the mechanical properties such hardness, tensile strength, elongation, impact absorbed energy, etc. The notch tensile and fracture toughness properties of Q&P steels are still lacking therefore notch tensile strength and plain strain fracture toughness tests were conducted and results are reported here. Results of Q&P treatments were also compared with the properties obtained by conventional Quenching and Tempering (Q&T) and normalizing treatments. Optimum strength-ductility balance of about 2000 MPa tensile strength with 11% elongation was achieved in samples quenched at 473 K and isothermally partitioned for 100 s. Higher ductility of Q&P steel was attributed to the presence of 6.8% film-type interlath retained austenite. Fine-grained martensitic structure with high density of interphase boundaries imparted ultrahigh strength. It was further noted that the impact toughness, notch tensile strength and fracture toughness of 1000 s partitioned samples was higher than 100 s partitioned samples. Possible reasons for high toughness are synergetic effect of recovery of dislocations, partial loss of martensite tetragonality and precipitation of fine transition carbides.

Fracture behavior of thick, laminated graphite/epoxy composites

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Harris, C. E.; Morris, D. H.

1984-01-01

The effect of laminate thickness on the fracture behavior of laminated graphite epoxy (T300/5208) composites was studied. The predominantly experimental research program included the study of the 0/+ or - 45/90 sub ns and 0/90 sub ns laminates with thickness of 8, 32, 64, 96 and 120 plies and the 0/+ or - 45 sub ns laminate with thickness of 6, 30, 60, 90 and 120 plies. The research concentrated on the measurement of fracture toughness utilizing the center-cracked tension, compact tension and three point bend specimen configurations. The development of subcritical damage at the crack tip was studied nondestructively using enhanced X-ray radiography and destructively using the laminate deply technique. The test results showed fracture toughness to be a function of laminate thickness. The fracture toughness of the 0 + or - 45/90 sub ns and 0/90 sub ns laminates decreased with increasing thickness and asymptotically approached lower bound values of 30 ksi square root of in. (1043 MPa square root of mm and 25 ksi square root of in (869 MPa square root of mm respectively. In contrast to the other two laminates, the fracture toughness of the 0/+ or - 45 sub ns laminate increased sharply with increasing thickness but reached an upper plateau value of 40 ksi square root of in (1390 MPa square root of mm) at 30 plies. Fracture toughness was independent of crack size for both thin and thick laminates for all three laminate types except for the 0/90 sub 2s laminate which spilt extensively. The center cracked tension, three point bend and compact tension specimens gave comparable results.

Simulation of Intergranular Ductile Cracking in β Titanium Alloys Based on a Micro-Mechanical Damage Model

PubMed Central

Li, Huan; Li, Jinshan; Tang, Bin; Fan, Jiangkun; Yuan, Huang

2017-01-01

The intergranular crack propagation of the lamellar structure β titanium alloys is investigated by using a modified Gurson-type damage model. The representative microstructure of the lamellar alloy, which consists of the soft α phase layer surrounding the hard grain interiors, is generated based on an advanced Voronoi algorithm. Both the normal fracture due to void growth and the shear fracture associated with void shearing are considered for the grain boundary α layer. The individual phase properties are determined according to the experimental nanoindentation result and the macroscopic stress–strain curve from a uni-axial tensile test. The effects of the strain hardening exponent of the grain interiors and the void shearing mechanism of the grain boundary α layer on fracture toughness and the intergranular crack growth behavior are emphatically studied. The computational predictions indicate that fracture toughness can be increased with increasing the strain hardening ability of the grain interiors and void shearing can be deleterious to fracture toughness. Based on the current simulation technique, qualitative understanding of relationships between the individual phase features and the fracture toughness of the lamellar alloys can be obtained, which provides useful suggestions to the heat treatment process of the β titanium alloys. PMID:29084171

Simulation of Intergranular Ductile Cracking in β Titanium Alloys Based on a Micro-Mechanical Damage Model.

PubMed

Li, Huan; Li, Jinshan; Tang, Bin; Fan, Jiangkun; Yuan, Huang

2017-10-30

The intergranular crack propagation of the lamellar structure β titanium alloys is investigated by using a modified Gurson-type damage model. The representative microstructure of the lamellar alloy, which consists of the soft α phase layer surrounding the hard grain interiors, is generated based on an advanced Voronoi algorithm. Both the normal fracture due to void growth and the shear fracture associated with void shearing are considered for the grain boundary α layer. The individual phase properties are determined according to the experimental nanoindentation result and the macroscopic stress-strain curve from a uni-axial tensile test. The effects of the strain hardening exponent of the grain interiors and the void shearing mechanism of the grain boundary α layer on fracture toughness and the intergranular crack growth behavior are emphatically studied. The computational predictions indicate that fracture toughness can be increased with increasing the strain hardening ability of the grain interiors and void shearing can be deleterious to fracture toughness. Based on the current simulation technique, qualitative understanding of relationships between the individual phase features and the fracture toughness of the lamellar alloys can be obtained, which provides useful suggestions to the heat treatment process of the β titanium alloys.

Fracture toughness and Charpy impact properties of several RAFMS before and after irradiation in HFIR

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Sokolov, M. A.; Tanigawa, H.; Odette, G. R.; Shiba, K.; Klueh, R. L.

2007-08-01

As part of the development of candidate reduced-activation ferritic steels for fusion applications, several steels, namely F82H, 9Cr-2WVTa steels and F82H weld metal, are being investigated in the joint DOE-JAEA collaboration program. Within this program, three capsules containing a variety of specimen designs were irradiated at two design temperatures in the ORNL High Flux Isotope Reactor (HFIR). Two capsules, RB-11J and RB-12J, were irradiated in the HFIR removable beryllium positions with europium oxide (Eu 2O 3) thermal neutron shields in place. Specimens were irradiated up to 5 dpa. Capsule JP25 was irradiated in the HFIR target position to 20 dpa. The design temperatures were 300 °C and 500 °C. Precracked third-sized V-notch Charpy (3.3 × 3.3 × 25.4 mm) and 0.18 T DC(T) specimens were tested to determine transition and ductile shelf fracture toughness before and after irradiation. The master curve methodology was applied to evaluate the fracture toughness transition temperature, T0. Irradiation induced shifts of T0 and reductions of JQ were compared with Charpy V-notch impact properties. Fracture toughness and Charpy shifts were also compared to hardening results.

Delamination toughness characterization of out-of-autoclave vacuum-bag-only polymer matrix composites enhanced by z-aligned carbon nanofibers

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Brewer, John S.

Brewer, John S., M. S., University of South Alabama, May 2015. Delamination Toughness Characterization of Out-of-Autoclave Vacuum-Bag-Only Polymer Matrix Composites Enhanced by z-aligned Carbon Nanofibers. Chair of Committee: Kuang-Ting Hsiao, Ph.D. In the last few decades, the use of composite materials has revolutionized materials manufacturing. Now, carbon fiber materials are at the forefront of engineering and manufacturing technology. One of the chief failure modes of composite materials is delamination. For this reason, this study employed the Mode-I Interlaminar Fracture Toughness Test (ASTM D 5528-01) to characterize how the inclusion of z-aligned carbon nanofibers (CNF) in Carbon Fiber Reinforced Polymers (CFRP) affects delamination strength. CFRP with z-aligned CNF in concentrations of 0.3% and 0.6% by weight were compared to control CFRP samples and CFRP samples modified with 0.3 weight percent unaligned CNF. The largest improvement was seen in the 0.3 weight percent aligned composite with a mean interlaminar fracture toughness increase of over 35%, while the uncertainty was decreased. A standard deviation of 3.3% was observed which equates to an uncertainty value 30% better than the control samples. Data and microscopy are included and discussed.

The relation of microdamage to fracture and material property degradation in human cortical bone tissue

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Akkus, Ozan

This dissertation investigates the relation of microdamage to fracture and material property degradation of human cortical bone tissue. Fracture resistance and fatigue crack growth of microcracks were examined experimentally and material property degradation was examined through theoretical modeling. To investigate the contribution of microdamage to static fracture resistance, fracture toughness tests were conducted in the transverse and longitudinal directions to the osteonal orientation of normal bone tissue. Damage accumulation was monitored by acoustic emission during testing and was spatially observed by histological observation following testing. The results suggested that the propagation of the main crack involved weakening of the tissue by diffuse damage at the fracture plane and by formation of linear microcracks away from the fracture plane for the transverse specimens. For the longitudinal specimens, growth of the main crack occurred in the form of separations at lamellar interfaces. Acoustic emission results supported the histological observations. To investigate the contribution of ultrastructure to static fracture resistance, fracture toughness tests were conducted after altering the collagen phase of the bone tissue by gamma radiation. A significant decrease in the fracture toughness, Work-to-Fracture and the amount damage was observed due to irradiation in both crack growth directions. For cortical bone irradiated at 27.5kGy, fracture toughness is reduced due to the inhibition of damage formation at and near the crack tip. Microcrack fatigue crack growth and arrest were investigated through observations of surface cracks during cyclic loading. At the applied cyclic stresses, the microcracks propagated and arrested in less than 10,000 cycles. In addition, the microcracks were observed not to grow beyond a length of 150mum and a DeltaK of 0.5MNm-3/2, supporting a microstructural barrier concept. Finally, the contribution of linear microcracks to material property degradation was examined by developing a theoretical micromechanical damage model. The model was compared to experimentally induced damage in bone tissue. The percent contribution of linear microcracks to the total degradation was predicted to be less than 5%, indicating that diffuse damage or an unidentified form of damage is primarily responsible for material property degradation in human cortical bone tissue.

Long-Term Effect of Fault-Controlled CO2 Alteration on the Weakening and Strengthening of Reservoir and Seal Lithologies at Crystal Geyser, Green River, Utah

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Major, J. R.; Eichhubl, P.; Dewers, T. A.

2014-12-01

An understanding of the coupled chemical and mechanical properties and behavior of reservoir and seal rocks is critical for assessing both the short and long term security of sequestered CO2. A combined structural diagenesis approach using observations from natural analogs has great advantages for understanding these properties over longer time scales than is possible using laboratory or numerical experiments. Current numerical models evaluating failure of reservoirs and seals during and after CO2 injection in the subsurface are just beginning to account for such coupled processes. Well-characterized field studies of natural analogs such as Crystal Geyser, Utah, are essential for providing realistic input parameters, calibration, and testing of numerical models across a range of spatial and temporal scales. Fracture mechanics testing was performed on a suite of naturally altered and unaltered reservoir and seal rocks exposed at the Crystal Geyser field site. These samples represent end-products of CO2-related alteration over geologic (>103 yr) time scales. Both the double torsion and short rod test methods yield comparable results on the same samples. Tests demonstrate that CO2-related alteration has weakened one reservoir sandstone lithology by approximately 50%, but the subcritical index is not significantly affected. An altered siltstone sample also shows a reduction in fracture toughness values and lowered subcritical index in comparison to unaltered siltstone. In contrast, elevated calcite content in shales due to CO2 alteration has increased fracture toughness. Similarly, fracture toughness was increased in what is otherwise a weak, poorly cemented sandstone unit due to increased calcite cement. Combined, these results demonstrate that CO2-related alteration generally weakens rock to fracturing (i.e. lowers fracture toughness), except in cases where calcite cementation is significantly increased. The natural system at Crystal Geyser demonstrates that water-CO2-rock interaction driven by changes in the geochemical environment have measurably altered rock geomechanical properties and that some rock units may become more prone to failure, ultimately leading to fracturing and leakage of subsurface reservoirs. These results also have application for CO2-based enhanced oil recovery.

Ceramic-to-Metal Joining for High Temperature, High Pressure Heat Exchangers

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Mako, Frederick; Mako III, Frederick

2016-12-05

Designed and tested silicon carbide to metal joining and silicon carbide joining technology under high temperature and high pressure conditions. Determined that the joints maintained integrity and remained helium gas tight. These joined parts have been tested for mechanical strength, fracture toughness and hermeticity. A component testing chamber was designed and built and used for testing the joint integrity.

Understanding the Interdependencies Between Composition, Microstructure, and Continuum Variables and Their Influence on the Fracture Toughness of α/β-Processed Ti-6Al-4V

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Collins, P. C.; Koduri, S.; Dixit, V.; Fraser, H. L.

2018-03-01

The fracture toughness of a material depends upon the material's composition and microstructure, as well as other material properties operating at the continuum level. The interrelationships between these variables are complex, and thus difficult to interpret, especially in multi-component, multi-phase ductile engineering alloys such as α/β-processed Ti-6Al-4V (nominal composition, wt pct). Neural networks have been used to elucidate how variables such as composition and microstructure influence the fracture toughness directly ( i.e., via a crack initiation or propagation mechanism)—and independent of the influence of the same variables influence on the yield strength and plasticity of the material. The variables included in the models and analysis include (i) alloy composition, specifically, Al, V, O, and Fe; (ii) materials microstructure, including phase fractions and average sizes of key microstructural features; (iii) the yield strength and reduction in area obtained from uniaxial tensile tests; and (iv) an assessment of the degree to which plane strain conditions were satisfied by including a factor related to the plane strain thickness. Once trained, virtual experiments have been conducted which permit the determination of each variable's functional dependency on the resulting fracture toughness. Given that the database includes both K 1 C and K Q values, as well as the in-plane component of the stress state of the crack tip, it is possible to quantitatively assess the effect of sample thickness on K Q and the degree to which the K Q and K 1 C values may vary. These interpretations drawn by comparing multiple neural networks have a significant impact on the general understanding of how the microstructure influences the fracture toughness in ductile materials, as well as an ability to predict the fracture toughness of α/β-processed Ti-6Al-4V.

A Multi-Parameter Approach for Calculating Crack Instability

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Zanganeh, M.; Forman, R. G.

2014-01-01

An accurate fracture control analysis of spacecraft pressure systems, boosters, rocket hardware and other critical low-cycle fatigue cases where the fracture toughness highly impacts cycles to failure requires accurate knowledge of the material fracture toughness. However, applicability of the measured fracture toughness values using standard specimens and transferability of the values to crack instability analysis of the realistically complex structures is refutable. The commonly used single parameter Linear Elastic Fracture Mechanics (LEFM) approach which relies on the key assumption that the fracture toughness is a material property would result in inaccurate crack instability predictions. In the past years extensive studies have been conducted to improve the single parameter (K-controlled) LEFM by introducing parameters accounting for the geometry or in-plane constraint effects]. Despite the importance of the thickness (out-of-plane constraint) effects in fracture control problems, the literature is mainly limited to some empirical equations for scaling the fracture toughness data] and only few theoretically based developments can be found. In aerospace hardware where the structure might have only one life cycle and weight reduction is crucial, reducing the design margin of safety by decreasing the uncertainty involved in fracture toughness evaluations would result in lighter hardware. In such conditions LEFM would not suffice and an elastic-plastic analysis would be vital. Multi-parameter elastic plastic crack tip field quantifying developments combined with statistical methods] have been shown to have the potential to be used as a powerful tool for tackling such problems. However, these approaches have not been comprehensively scrutinized using experimental tests. Therefore, in this paper a multi-parameter elastic-plastic approach has been used to study the crack instability problem and the transferability issue by considering the effects of geometrical constraints as well as the thickness. The feasibility of the approach has been examined using a wide range of specimen geometries and thicknesses manufactured from 7075-T7351 aluminum alloy.

Welding High Strength Modern Line Pipe Steel

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Goodall, Graeme Robertson

The effect of modern mechanized girth welding on high strength line pipe has been investigated. The single cycle grain coarsened heat affected zone in three grade 690 line pipe steels and a grade 550 steel has been simulated using a Gleeble thermo-mechanical simulator. The continuous cooling transformation diagrams applicable to the grain coarsened heat affected zone resulting from a range of heat inputs applicable to modern mechanized welding have been established by dilatometry and metallography. The coarse grained heat affected zone was found to transform to lath martensite, bainite, and granular bainite depending on the cooling rate. The impact toughness of the steels was measured using Charpy impact toughness and compared to the toughness of the grain coarsened heat affected zone corresponding to a welding thermal cycle. The ductile to brittle transition temperature was found to be lowest for the steel with the highest hardenability. The toughness resulting from three different thermal cycles including a novel interrupted intercritically reheated grain coarsened (NTR ICR GC HAZ) that can result from dual torch welding at fast travel speed and close torch spacing have been investigated. All of the thermally HAZ regions showed reduced toughness that was attributed to bainitic microstructure and large effective grain sizes. Continuous cooling transformation diagrams for five weld metal chemistries applicable to mechanized pulsed gas metal arc welding of modern high strength pipe steel (SMYS>550 MPa) have been constructed. Welds at heat inputs of 1.5 kJmm-1 and 0.5 kJmm-1 have been created for simulation and analysis. Dilatometric analysis was performed on weld metal specimens cut from single pass 1.5 kJmm-1 as deposited beads. The resulting microstructures were found to range from martensite to polygonal ferrite. There is excellent agreement between the simulated and as deposited weld metal regions. Toughness testing indicates improved energy absorption at -20 °C with increased cooling time.

Fatigue pre-cracking and fracture toughness in polycrystalline tungsten and molybdenum

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Taguchi, Katsuya; Nakadate, Kazuhito; Matsuo, Satoru; Tokunaga, Kazutoshi; Kurishita, Hiroaki

2018-01-01

Fatigue pre-cracking performance and fracture toughness in polycrystalline tungsten (W) and molybdenum (Mo) have been investigated in relation to grain boundary (GB) configuration with respect to the crack advance direction. Sub-sized, single edge notched bend (SENB) specimens with three different orientations, R-L (ASTM notation) for a forged Mo rod and L-S and T-S for a rolled W plate, were pre-cracked in two steps: fully uniaxial compression fatigue loading to provoke crack initiation and its stable growth from the notch root, and subsequent 3-point bend (3PB) fatigue loading to extend the crack. The latter step intends to minimize the influence of the residual tensile stresses generated during compression fatigue by moving the crack tip away from the plastic zone. It is shown that fatigue pre-cracking performance, especially pre-crack extension behavior, is significantly affected by the specimen orientation. The R-L orientation, giving the easiest cracking path, permitted crack extension completely beyond the plastic zone, while the L-S and T-S orientations with the thickness cracking direction of the rolled plate sustained the crack lengths around or possibly within the plastic zone size due to difficulty in crack advance through an aligned grain structure. Room temperature fracture toughness tests revealed that the 3PB fatigued specimens exhibited appreciably higher fracture toughness by about 30% for R-L, 40% for L-S and 60% for T-S than the specimens of each orientation pre-cracked by compression fatigue only. This indicates that 3PB fatigue provides the crack tip front out of the residual tensile stress zone by crack extension or leads to reduction in the residual stresses at the crack tip front. Strong dependence of fracture toughness on GB configuration was evident. The obtained fracture toughness values are compared with those in the literature and its strong GB configuration dependence is discussed in connection with the appearance of pop-in.

Toughening mechanisms in laminated composites: A biomimetic study in mollusk shells

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Kamat, Shekhar Shripad

2000-10-01

Mollusk shells can be described as structural biocomposite materials composed of a mineral (aragonite) and a continuous, albeit minor, organic (protein) component. The conch shell, Strombus Gigas, has intermediate strength and high fracture toughness. The high fracture toughness is a result of enhanced energy dissipation during crack propagation due to delamination, crack bridging, frictional sliding etc. A theoretical and experimental study was conducted on the crack bridging mechanisms operative in the shell. Four-point bend tests were conducted. Acoustic emission and post-mortem dye penetrants were used to characterize the crack propagation, together with conventional fractography. A two layer composite configuration is seen in the shells, with the tough and weak layers having a toughness ratio of ˜4 (Ktough = 2.2MPam1/2). This toughness ratio is a requisite for multiple cracking in the weak layer. A theoretical shear lag analysis of the crack bridging phenomena in the tough layer is shown to lead to a bridging law for the crack wake of the form of p = betau1/2 (p is the bridging traction for a crack opening u, with beta, being a constant of proportionality). Finite element analysis yielded a value of beta = 630 Nmm-5/2 and ucritical = 5 mum for the bridging law parameters. In a nonlinear fracture mechanics phenomenology, these values are relevant material parameters, rather than a critical stress intensity factor. The work of fracture for unnotched specimens is three orders of magnitude higher than mineral aragonite, and is demonstrated numerically incorporating the toughening mechanisms in the shell. Similar structural adaptations have been observed and studied in the red abalone shell, haliotis rufescens and the spines of the sea urchin, Heterocentrotus trigonarius. The toughening mechanisms seen in these shells give insight into structural design needs of brittle matrix composites (BMC) as well as conventional structural ceramics.

The Assessment and Validation of Mini-Compact Tension Test Specimen Geometry and Progress in Establishing Technique for Fracture Toughness Master Curves for Reactor Pressure Vessel Steels

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Sokolov, Mikhail A.; Nanstad, Randy K.

Small specimens are playing the key role in evaluating properties of irradiated materials. The use of small specimens provides several advantages. Typically, only a small volume of material can be irradiated in a reactor at desirable conditions in terms of temperature, neutron flux, and neutron dose. A small volume of irradiated material may also allow for easier handling of specimens. Smaller specimens reduce the amount of radioactive material, minimizing personnel exposures and waste disposal. However, use of small specimens imposes a variety of challenges as well. These challenges are associated with proper accounting for size effects and transferability of smallmore » specimen data to the real structures of interest. Any fracture toughness specimen that can be made out of the broken halves of standard Charpy specimens may have exceptional utility for evaluation of reactor pressure vessels (RPVs) since it would allow one to determine and monitor directly actual fracture toughness instead of requiring indirect predictions using correlations established with impact data. The Charpy V-notch specimen is the most commonly used specimen geometry in surveillance programs. Assessment and validation of mini-CT specimen geometry has been performed on previously well characterized HSST Plate 13B, an A533B class 1 steel. It was shown that the fracture toughness transition temperature measured by these Mini-CT specimens is within the range of To values that were derived from various large fracture toughness specimens. Moreover, the scatter of the fracture toughness values measured by Mini-CT specimens perfectly follows the Weibull distribution function providing additional proof for validation of this geometry for the Master Curve evaluation of rector pressure vessel steels. Moreover, the International collaborative program has been developed to extend the assessment and validation efforts to irradiated weld metal. The program is underway and involves ORNL, CRIEPI, and EPRI.« less

Evaluation of material homogeniety as a function of thickness of low-alloy ferritic steel

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Anderson, T.L.; Lambert, M.A.

1989-11-01

A series of Charpy and nil-ductility transition temperature (NDTT) tests were performed on 8 in. and 12 in. thick forgings of A508-4A, A508-4B, and A350-LF3 steels. Three different positions in thickness were tested in the 12 in. forgings, while two locations in the forging were analyzed. Chemical analysis and metallographic examination were also performed on each material and in each thickness location. The material toughness tended to be lower in the thicker forgings and in the center of a given forging. Low relative toughness coincided with well tempered microstructures, where equiaxed ferrite grains had begun to form. These grains aremore » coarser than the packet structure that existed at earlier stages of tempering. Low quench rates (associated with thick sections and central regions of a given thickness) apparently accelerated the structural changes during tempering, which led to microstructures with low toughness. The NDTT results were suspect because most arrests occurred in the heat affected zones (HAZs) of the welds rather than in the parent metal. The measured NDTT values were lower than expected, based on published empirical correlations with Charpy energy. This was particularly true for the A508-4A steel. This provided further evidence that the drop weight tests were actually measuring the arrest properties of the HAZ in most cases. The fact that NDTT values were lower than expected is particularly surprising since the anvil test fixture was machined with a deflection stop 25 percent higher than the standard value.« less

Interface toughness of a zirconia-veneer system and the effect of a liner application.

PubMed

Wang, Gaoqi; Zhang, Song; Bian, Cuirong; Kong, Hui

2014-09-01

Chipping of veneering porcelain and delamination of a zirconia-veneer interface are 2 common clinical failure modes for zirconia-based restorations and may be partially due to weak interface bonding. The effect of liner on the bond strength of the interface has not been clearly identified. The purpose of the research was to evaluate the interface toughness between the zirconia core and veneering porcelain by means of a fracture mechanics test and to assess the effect of liner on the bond strength of the interface. Thirty bilayered beam-shape specimens were prepared and divided into 2 groups according to liner application. The specimens in each group were subdivided into 3 subgroups in accordance with 3 different veneer thicknesses. A fracture mechanics test was used on each specimen, and the energy release rate, G, and phase angle, ψ, were calculated according to the experimental results. A video microscope was used to monitor the crack propagation, and a scanning electron microscope was used to identify the fracture mode after testing. Two-way ANOVA and the Tukey honestly significant difference test were performed to analyze the experimental data (α=.05) . At each phase angle, the interfaces without a liner had higher mean G values than the interfaces with a liner. Both of the interfaces showed mixed failure mode with thin layers of a veneer or a liner that remained on the zirconia surfaces. Liner application before veneering reduced the interface toughness between zirconia and veneer. Copyright © 2014 Editorial Council for the Journal of Prosthetic Dentistry. Published by Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

Comparison of Mental Toughness and Power Test Performances in High-Level Kickboxers by Competitive Success

PubMed Central

Slimani, Maamer; Miarka, Bianca; Briki, Walid; Cheour, Foued

2016-01-01

Background Kickboxing is a high-intensity intermittent striking combat sport, which is characterized by complex skills and tactical key actions with short duration. Objectives The present study compared and verified the relationship between mental toughness (MT), countermovement jump (CMJ) and medicine ball throw (MBT) power tests by outcomes of high-level kickboxers during National Championship. Materials and Methods Thirty two high-level male kickboxers (winner = 16 and loser = 16: 21.2 ± 3.1 years, 1.73 ± 0.07 m, and 70.2 ± 9.4 kg) were analyzed using the CMJ, MBT tests and sports mental toughness questionnaire (SMTQ; based in confidence, constancy and control subscales), before the fights of the 2015 national championship (16 bouts). In statistical analysis, Mann-Withney test and a multiple linear regression were used to compare groups and to observe relationships, respectively, P ≤ 0.05. Results The present results showed significant differences between losers vs. winners, respectively, of total MT (7(7;8) vs. 11(10.2;11), confidence (3(3;3) vs. 4(4;4)), constancy (2(2;2) vs. 3(3;3)), control (2(2;3) vs. 4(4;4)) subscales and MBT (4.1(4;4.3) vs. 4.6(4.4;4.8)). The multiple linear regression showed a strong associations between MT results and outcome (r = 0.89), MBT (r = 0.84) and CMJ (r = 0.73). Conclusions The findings suggest that MT will be more predictive of performance in those sports and in the outcome of competition. PMID:27625755

Are adolescents with high mental toughness levels more resilient against stress?

PubMed

Gerber, Markus; Kalak, Nadeem; Lemola, Sakari; Clough, Peter J; Perry, John L; Pühse, Uwe; Elliot, Catherine; Holsboer-Trachsler, Edith; Brand, Serge

2013-04-01

Mental toughness has been explored predominantly within sport contexts. Nevertheless, it is difficult to conceive mental toughness as only applicable to athletes. This study examines whether mentally tough participants exhibit resilience against stress. This is a cross-sectional study based on two different samples: Sample 1 consisted of 284 high school students (99 males, 185 females, M = 18.3 years). Sample 2 consisted of 140 first through fifth semester undergraduate students (53 males, 87 females, M = 20.0 years). Participants provided information about their level of perceived stress (10-item Perceived Stress Scale), mental toughness (48-item Mental Toughness Questionnaire) and depressive symptoms (Beck Depression Inventory). Consistent across the two samples, mental toughness mitigated the relationship between high stress and depressive symptoms. The interaction between stress and mental toughness explained 2% of variance in the adolescent sample and 10% of variance among young adults. The promotion of protective factors that foster resilient adaptation is a relevant issue. Mental toughness may appeal to individuals that are typically difficult to be reached with health interventions. Because mental toughness is part of young people's daily speech, it may serve as a less academic resource than other health psychology concepts. Copyright © 2012 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.

Fracture toughness, tensile and stress corrosion cracking properties of Alloy 600, Alloy 690 and their welds in water

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Brown, C.M.; Mills, W.J.

1996-10-01

The fracture toughness and tensile properties of Alloy 600, Alloy 690 and their welds, EN82H and EN52, were characterized in 54 and 338 C water with an elevated hydrogen content. Results were compared with air data to evaluate the effect of low and high temperature water on mechanical properties. In addition, the stress corrosion cracking (SCC) behavior of EN82H and EN52 welds was evaluated in 360 C water with high hydrogen. Elastic-plastic J{sub c} fracture toughness testing revealed that the fracture resistance of all test materials was exceptionally high in 54 and 338 C air and 338 C water, demonstratingmore » that fracture properties were essentially unaffected by the high temperature water environment. In 54 C water, however, J{sub c} values for EN82H and EN52 welds were reduced by an order of magnitude, and Alloy 690 showed a five-fold decrease in J{sub c}. Tensile properties for all test materials were essentially unaffected by the water environment, except for the total elongation for EN82H welds which was significantly reduced in 54 C water. At a strain rate of 5 x 10{sup 6} sec{sup {minus}1} in low temperature water, there appears to be sufficient time for environmental interactions to restrict ductility in EN82H welds. Constant-load testing of precracked weld specimens in 360 C water resulted in extensive intergranular SCC in EN82H welds loaded to K{sub I} levels between 35 and 55 MPa {radical}m, whereas no SCC occurred in EN52 welds under comparable test conditions.« less

A new non-metallic anchorage system for post-tensioning applications using CFRP tendons

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Taha, Mahmoud Reda

The objective of the work described in this thesis is to design, develop and test a new non-metallic anchorage system for post-tensioning applications using CFRP tendons. The use of a non-metallic anchorage system should eliminate corrosion and deterioration concerns in the anchorage zone. The development of a reliable non-metallic anchorage would provide an important contribution to this field of knowledge. The idea of the new anchorage is to hold the tendon through mechanical gripping. The anchorage consists of a barrel with a conical housing and four wedges. The anchorage components are made of ultra high performance concrete (UHPC) specially developed for the anchorage. Sixteen concrete mixtures with different casting and curing regimes were examined to develop four UHPC mixtures with compressive strengths in excess of 200 MPa. The UHPC mixtures showed very dense microstructures with some unique characteristics. To enhance the fracture toughness of the newly developed UHPC, analytical and experimental analyses were performed. Using 3 mm chopped carbon fibres, a significant increase in the fracture toughness of UHPC was achieved. The non-metallic anchorage was developed with the UHPC with enhanced fracture toughness. The barrel required careful wrapping with CFRP sheets to provide the confinement required to utilize the strength and toughness of the UHPC. Thirty-three anchorages were tested under both static and dynamic loading conditions. The non-metallic anchorage showed excellent mechanical performance and fulfilled the different requirements of a post-tensioning anchorage system. The development of the new non-metallic anchorage will widen the inclusion of CFRP tendons in post-tensioned concrete/masonry structures. The new system will offer the opportunity to exploit CFRP tendons effectively creating an innovative generation of corrosion-free, smart structures.

A Mixed-Mode (I-II) Fracture Criterion for AS4/8552 Carbon/Epoxy Composite Laminate

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Karnati, Sidharth Reddy

A majority of aerospace structures are subjected to bending and stretching loads that introduce peel and shear stresses between the plies of a composite laminate. These two stress components cause a combination of mode I and II fracture modes in the matrix layer of the composite laminate. The most common failure mode in laminated composites is delamination that affects the structural integrity of composite structures. Damage tolerant designs of structures require two types of materials data: mixed-mode (I-II) delamination fracture toughness that predicts failure and delamination growth rate that predicts the life of the structural component. This research focuses determining mixed-mode (I-II) fracture toughness under a combination of mode I and mode II stress states and then a fracture criterion for AS4/8552 composite laminate, which is widely used in general aviation. The AS4/8552 prepreg was supplied by Hexcel Corporation and autoclave fabricated into a 20-ply unidirectional laminate with an artificial delamination by a Fluorinated Ethylene Propylene (FEP) film at the mid-plane. Standard split beam specimens were prepared and tested in double cantilever beam (DCB) and end notched flexure modes to determine mode I (GIC) and II (GIIC) fracture toughnesses, respectively. The DCB specimens were also tested in a modified mixed-mode bending apparatus at GIIm /GT ratios of 0.18, 0.37, 0.57 and 0.78, where GT is total and GIIm is the mode II component of energy release rates. The measured fracture toughness, GC, was found to follow the locus a power law equation. The equation was validated for the present and literature experimental data.

How We Define Success: Holding Values in an Era of High Stakes Accountability

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Gasoi, Emily

2009-01-01

In the current climate of high stakes testing and tough love rhetoric, many educational stakeholders have become increasingly reliant on standardized test scores to determine whether or not individual students, teachers, and schools--and even entire districts and states--are successful. In contrast to the black and white picture that test-driven…

During early and mid-adolescence, greater mental toughness is related to increased sleep quality and quality of life.

PubMed

Brand, Serge; Kalak, Nadeem; Gerber, Markus; Clough, Peter J; Lemola, Sakari; Pühse, Uwe; Holsboer-Trachsler, Edith

2016-06-01

The aim of this study was to explore the association between mental toughness, subjective sleep, physical activity, and quality of life during early and mid-adolescence. A total of 1475 participants (mean age = 13.4 years; range: 11-16 years) took part in the study. They completed questionnaires related to mental toughness, physical activity, subjective sleep, and quality of life. Greater mental toughness was related to more favorable quality of life and increased subjective sleep. Mental toughness was not related to physical activity. Increased mental toughness, favorable quality of life, and sleep are related during early and mid-adolescence. Against our expectations, mental toughness was not related to physical activity. © The Author(s) 2014.

Effect of thermal exposure in helium on mechanical properties and microstructure of 316L and P91

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Kunzova, Klara; Berka, Jan; Siegl, Jan; Hausild, Petr

2016-04-01

In this paper, the effects of high temperature exposure in air as well as in impure He on mechanical properties of 316L and P91 steels were investigated. The experimental programme was part of material design of new experimental facility - high temperature helium loop. Some of the specimens were exposed in air at 750 °C for up to 1000 h. Another set of specimens were exposed in impure helium containing 1 ppmv CO2, 2 ppmv O2, 35 ppmv CH4, 250 ppmv CO and 400 ppmv H2 at 750 °C for up to 1000 h. Metalographical analysis, tensile tests, fracture toughness and hardness tests of exposed and non-exposed specimens were carried out. After the exposure both in air and He, the ultimate tensile strength of P91 decreased significantly more than that of 316L. After the exposure in He, the fracture toughness of 316L was reduced to 60% while fracture toughness of P91 showed no significant changes. The hardness of P91 decreased with exposure time in air. The measurement of the hardness of 316L was very scattered the most probably due to the heterogeneities in microstructure, the trend was not possible to evaluate.

Fracture behaviour of WC-Co hardmetals with WC partially substituted by titanium carbide

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Szutkowska, M.; Boniecki, M.; Cygan, S.; Kalinka, A.; Grilli, M. L.; Balos, S.

2018-03-01

The addition of various amounts of TiC0.9 phase in the range from 5wt.% to 20wt.% substituting WC phase was applied in WC-Co hardmetals with 9.5 wt.% bonding cobalt phase. The hardmetals were consolidated using Hot Isostatic Pressing (HIP) method at temperature of 1573K and pressure of 1500 atm. The plain strain fracture toughness has been determined from 3PB test on a precracking single edge notched beam (SENB) specimen. The indentation fracture toughness with Vickers cracks for comparison was also measured, which changed from 12 to 9.0 MPa·m1/2. The amount of the TiC0.9 phase affected the mechanical and physical properties: Vickers hardness from 12.5 to 14.0 GPa, Young’s modulus from 550 to 460 GPa, density from 13.1 to 9.6 g/cm3, friction coefficient from 0.24 to 0.45, fracture toughness from 16.8 to 11.0 MPa·m1/2. Scanning electron microscopy (SEM), X-ray and electron diffraction phase analysis were used to examine the WC-Co hardmetal with addition of the TiC0.9 phase. For comparison, physical and mechanical properties of the WC-Co hardmetals before modification were tested.

Fracture toughness and sliding properties of magnetron sputtered CrBC and CrBCN coatings

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Wang, Qianzhi; Zhou, Fei; Ma, Qiang; Callisti, Mauro; Polcar, Tomas; Yan, Jiwang

2018-06-01

CrBC and CrBCN coatings with low and high B contents were deposited on 316L steel and Si wafers using an unbalanced magnetron sputtering system. Mechanical properties including hardness (H), elastic modulus (E) and fracture toughness (KIc) as well as residual stresses (σ) were quantified. A clear correlation between structural, mechanical and tribological properties of coatings was found. In particular, structural analyses indicated that N incorporation in CrBC coatings with high B content caused a significant structural evolution of the nanocomposite structure (crystalline grains embedded into an amorphous matrix) from nc-CrB2/(a-CrBx, a-BCx) to nc-CrN/(a-BCx, a-BN). As a result, the hardness of CrBC coating with high B content decreased from 23.4 to 16.3 GPa but the fracture toughness was enhanced. Consequently, less cracks initiated on CrBCN coatings during tribological tests, which combined with the shielding effect of a-BN on wear debris, led to a low friction coefficient and wear rate.

Reinforcing effects of different fibers on denture base resin based on the fiber type, concentration, and combination.

PubMed

Yu, Sang-Hui; Lee, Yoon; Oh, Seunghan; Cho, Hye-Won; Oda, Yutaka; Bae, Ji-Myung

2012-01-01

The aim of this study was to evaluate the reinforcing effects of three types of fibers at various concentrations and in different combinations on flexural properties of denture base resin. Glass (GL), polyaromatic polyamide (PA) and ultra-high molecular weight polyethylene (PE) fibers were added to heat-polymerized denture base resin with volume concentrations of 2.6%, 5.3%, and 7.9%, respectively. In addition, hybrid fiber-reinforced composite (FRC) combined with either two or three types of fibers were fabricated. The flexural strength, modulus and toughness of each group were measured with a universal testing machine at a crosshead speed of 5 mm/min. In the single fiber-reinforced composite groups, the 5.3% GL and 7.9% GL had the highest flexural strength and modulus; 5.3% PE was had the highest toughness. Hybrid FRC such as GL/PE, which showed the highest toughness and the flexural strength, was considered to be useful in preventing denture fractures clinically.

Fracture toughness determination using spiral-grooved cylindrical specimen and pure torsional loading

DOEpatents

Wang, Jy-An; Liu, Kenneth C.

2003-07-08

A method for determining fracture toughness K.sub.IC of materials ranging from metallic alloys, brittle ceramics and their composites, and weldments. A cylindrical specimen having a helical V-groove with a 45.degree. pitch is subjected to pure torsion. This loading configuration creates a uniform tensile-stress crack-opening mode, and a transverse plane-strain state along the helical groove. The full length of the spiral groove is equivalent to the thickness of a conventional compact-type specimen. K.sub.IC values are determined from the fracture torque and crack length measured from the test specimen using a 3-D finite element program (TOR3D-KIC) developed for the purpose. In addition, a mixed mode (combined tensile and shear stress mode) fracture toughness value can be determined by varying the pitch of the helical groove. Since the key information needed for determining the K.sub.IC value is condensed in the vicinity of the crack tip, the specimen can be significantly miniaturized without the loss of generality.

A unifying strain criterion for fracture of fibrous composite laminates

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Poe, C. C., Jr.

1983-01-01

Fibrous composite materials, such as graphite/epoxy, are light, stiff, and strong. They have great potential for reducing weight in aircraft structures. However, for a realization of this potential, designers will have to know the fracture toughness of composite laminates in order to design damage tolerant structures. In connection with the development of an economical testing procedure, there is a great need for a single fracture toughness parameter which can be used to predict the stress-intensity factor (K(Q)) for all laminates of interest to the designer. Poe and Sova (1980) have derived a general fracture toughness parameter (Qc), which is a material constant. It defines the critical level of strains in the principal load-carryng plies. The present investigation is concerned with the calculation of values for the ratio of Qc and the ultimate tensile strain of the fibers. The obtained data indicate that this ratio is reasonably constant for layups which fail largely by self-similar crack extension.

Testing the Fracture Behaviour of Chocolate

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Parsons, L. B.; Goodall, R.

2011-01-01

In teaching the materials science aspects of physics, mechanical behaviour is important due to its relevance to many practical applications. This article presents a method for experimentally examining the toughness of chocolate, including a design for a simple test rig, and a number of experiments that can be performed in the classroom. Typical…

46 CFR 54.05-5 - Toughness test specimens.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2013 CFR

2013-10-01

..., transversely oriented specimens must be used. When longitudinal specimens are used, the required energy values...-Ductility Transition Temperature of Ferritic Steels”. For material thicknesses between 1/2-inch and 5/8-inch... correlate with the nil-ductility transition temperature determined by the drop-weight tests for the steels...

46 CFR 54.05-5 - Toughness test specimens.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2014 CFR

2014-10-01

..., transversely oriented specimens must be used. When longitudinal specimens are used, the required energy values...-Ductility Transition Temperature of Ferritic Steels”. For material thicknesses between 1/2-inch and 5/8-inch... correlate with the nil-ductility transition temperature determined by the drop-weight tests for the steels...

46 CFR 54.05-5 - Toughness test specimens.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2011 CFR

2011-10-01

... V-notch tests shall be conducted in accordance with ASTM Specification E 23 (incorporated by... for that thickness shall be cut centered at the material's mid-thickness. For materials thicker than 1/2-inch, full size Charpy specimens shall be cut centered at a location as near as practicable to a...

EFFECT OF TRITIUM AND DECAY HELIUM ON WELDMENT FRACTURE TOUGHNESS

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Morgan, M; Scott West, S; Michael Tosten, M

2006-09-26

The fracture toughness data collected in this study are needed to assess the long-term effects of tritium and its decay product on tritium reservoirs. The results show that tritium and decay helium have negative effects on the fracture toughness properties of stainless steel and its weldments. The data and report from this study has been included in a material property database for use in tritium reservoir modeling efforts like the Technology Investment Program ''Lifecycle Engineering for Tritium Reservoirs''. A number of conclusions can be drawn from the data: (1) For unexposed Type 304L stainless steel, the fracture toughness of weldmentsmore » was two to three times higher than the base metal toughness. (2) Tritium exposure lowered the fracture toughness properties of both base metals and weldments. This was characterized by lower J{sub Q} values and lower J-da curves. (3) Tritium-exposed-and-aged base metals and weldments had lower fracture toughness values than unexposed ones but still retained good toughness properties.« less

Experimental Study of the Mode I Interlaminar Fracture Toughness Improvement on Stitched CFRP Laminates

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Iwahori, Yutaka; Ishikawa, Takashi; Watanabe, Naoyuki; Hayashi, Yoichi; Ito, Akira

Experimental investigations have been made on the mode I interlaminar fracture toughness (GIC) of stitched CFRP (carbon fiber reinforced plastic) laminates. The GIC of stitched CFRP laminates fabricated by resin transfer molding (RTM) and stitching with five kinds of stitch thread thicknesses, 400d (denier), 600d, 800d, 1000d, and 1200d were experimentally obtained by double cantilever beam (DCB) tests. Interlaminar tension tests for stitched CFRP laminates for a specimen containing only one stitch thread were also carried out. The consumption energy of the single stitched CFRP laminates (Wt) and stitch threads broken modes were obtained by such interlaminar tension tests. DCB test results show that the GIC of stitched CFRP laminates of several stitch thread thicknesses are governed by stitch density (SD). It is found that the relationship between ΔGIC/ΔSD and Wt are linear function. In other words, the GIC of Kevlar® stitched CFRP laminates is not only governed by SD but also Wt obtained from the interlaminar tension tests. It is also suggested that the interlaminar tension test results exhibit the potential for GIC estimation on the Kevlar® stitched CFRP laminates instead of conducting the DCB tests.

Glass Stronger than Steel

DOE R&D Accomplishments Database

Yarris, Lynn

2011-03-28

A new type of damage-tolerant metallic glass, demonstrating a strength and toughness beyond that of steel or any other known material, has been developed and tested by a collaboration of researchers from Berkeley Lab and Caltech.

Effects of subcritical crack growth on fracture toughness of ceramics assessed in chevron-notched three-point bend tests

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Chao, L. Y.; Singh, D.; Shetty, D. K.

1988-01-01

A numerical computational study was carried out to assess the effects of subcritical crack growth on crack stability in the chevron-notched three-point bend specimens. A power-law relationship between the subcritical crack velocity and the applied stress intensity were used along with compliance and stress-intensity relationships for the chevron-notched bend specimen to calculate the load response under fixed deflection rate and a machine compliance. The results indicate that the maximum load during the test occurs at the same crack length for all the deflection rates; the maximum load, however, is dependent on the deflection rate for rates below the critical rate. The resulting dependence of the apparent fracture toughness on the deflection rate is compared to experimental results on soda-lime glass and polycrystalline alumina.

Back-Face Strain for Monitoring Stable Crack Extension in Precracked Flexure Specimens

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Salem, Jonathan A.; Ghosn, Louis J.

2010-01-01

Calibrations relating back-face strain to crack length in precracked flexure specimens were developed for different strain gage sizes. The functions were verified via experimental compliance measurements of notched and precracked ceramic beams. Good agreement between the functions and experiments occurred, and fracture toughness was calculated via several operational methods: maximum test load and optically measured precrack length; load at 2 percent crack extension and optical precrack length; maximum load and back-face strain crack length. All the methods gave vary comparable results. The initiation toughness, K(sub Ii) , was also estimated from the initial compliance and load.The results demonstrate that stability of precracked ceramics specimens tested in four-point flexure is a common occurrence, and that methods such as remotely-monitored load-point displacement are only adequate for detecting stable extension of relatively deep cracks.

Master Curve and Conventional Fracture Toughness of Modified 9Cr-1Mo Steel

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Ji-Hyun, Yoon; Sung-Ho, Kim; Bong-Sang, Lee

2006-07-01

Modified 9Cr-1Mo steel is a primary candidate material for reactor pressure vessel of Very High Temperature Gas-Cooled Reactor (VHTR) in Korean Nuclear Hydrogen Development and Demonstration (NHDD) program. In this study, T0 reference temperature, J-R fracture resistance and Charpy impact properties were evaluated for commercial Grade 91 steel as preliminary tests for the selection of the RPV material for VHTR. The fracture toughness of the modified 9Cr-1Mo steel was compared with those of SA508-Gr.3. The objective of this study was to obtain pre-irradiation fracture toughness properties of modified 9Cr-1Mo steel as reference data for the radiation effects investigation. The resultsmore » are as follows. Charpy impact properties of the modified 9Cr-1Mo steel were similar to those of SA508-Gr.3. T0 reference temperatures were measured as -67.7 deg C and -72.4 deg C from the tests with standard PCVN (pre-cracked Charpy V-notch) and half sized PCVN specimens respectively, which were similar to results for SA508-Gr.3. The K{sub Jc} values of modified 9Cr-1Mo with test temperatures are successfully expressed with the Master Curve. The J-R fracture resistance of modified 9Cr-1Mo steel at room temperature was almost the same as that of SA508-Gr.3. On the other hand it was a little bit higher at an elevated temperature. (authors)« less

Fracture toughness and the master curve for modified 9Cr-1Mo steel

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Yoon, Ji-Hyun; Yoon, Eui-Pak

2006-12-01

Modified 9Cr-1Mo steel is a primary candidate material for the reactor pressure vessel of a Very High Temperature Gas-Cooled Reactor (VHTR) in the Korean Nuclear Hydrogen Development and Demonstration (NHDD) program. In this study, the T0 reference temperature, J-R fracture resistance and Charpy impact properties were evaluated for commercial Grade 91 steel as part of the preliminary testing for a selection of the RPV material for the VHTR. The fracture toughness of the modified 9Cr-1Mo steel was compared with that of SA508-Gr.3. The objective of this study was to obtain the pre-irradiation fracture toughness properties of the modified 9Cr-1Mo steel as reference data for an investigation of radiation effects. Charpy impact properties of the modified 9Cr-1Mo steel were similar to those of SA508-Gr.3. T0 reference temperatures were measured as -67.7 and -72.4°C from the tests with standard PCVN (pre-cracked Charpy V-notch) and half-sized PCVN specimens respectively, which were similar to the results for SA508-Gr.3. The KJc values of the modified 9Cr-1Mo steel with the test temperatures are successfully expressed by the Master Curve. The J-R fracture resistance of the modified 9Cr-1Mo steel at room temperature was nearly identical to that of SA508-Gr.3; in contrast, it was slightly higher at an elevated temperature.

Influence of Heat Input on Microstructure and Toughness Properties in Simulated CGHAZ of X80 Steel Manufactured Using High-Temperature Processing

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Zhu, Zhixiong; Han, Jian; Li, Huijun

2015-11-01

To determine and demonstrate the weldability of high-Nb high-temperature processed (HTP) steels and provide extremely valuable information for future line pipe steel design and general steel manufacture, in the current study the toughness in simulated coarse-grained heat-affected zone (CGHAZ) of an X80 grade steel manufactured using HTP was evaluated. The simulated CGHAZs subjected to thermal cycles with various heat inputs (HIs) (0.8 to 5.0 kJ/mm) were produced using a Gleeble 3500 simulator. The microstructures and corresponding mechanical properties were investigated by means of optical microscopy, scanning electron microscopy, electron backscatter diffraction, hardness testing, and Charpy V-notch (CVN) testing. The microstructural examination shows that the simulated CGHAZs consisted of a bainite-dominant microstructure and relatively low amount (<2 pct) of martensite-austenite (M-A) constituent. The prior austenite grain size was controlled to be 45 to 55 µm at HIs of 0.8 to 3.5 kJ/mm, and remarkably increased to 85 µm at an HI of 5 kJ/mm. The results of CVN testing suggest that superior toughness can be achieved in the studied range of HIs (0.8 to 5 kJ/mm). This is thought to be associated with the combined effects of bainitic microstructure and low M-A fraction as well as comparatively fine austenite grain size in the studied CGHAZs.

Thermal annealing recovery of fracture toughness in HT9 steel after irradation to high doses

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Byun, Thak Sang; Baek, Jong-Hyuk; Anderoglu, Osman

2013-08-03

The HT9 ferritic/martensitic steel with a nominal chemistry of Fe(bal.)–12%Cr–1%MoVW has been used as a primary core material for fast fission reactors such as FFTF because of its high resistance to radiationinduced swelling and embrittlement. Both static and dynamic fracture test results have shown that the HT9 steel can become brittle when it is exposed to high dose irradiation at a relatively low temperature 430 °C). This article aims at a comprehensive discussion on the thermal annealing recovery of fracture toughness in the HT9 steel after irradiation up to 3–148 dpa at 378–504 °C. A specimen reuse technique has beenmore » established and applied to this study: the fracture specimens were tested Charpy specimens or broken halves of Charpy bars (13 3 4 mm). The post-anneal fracture test results indicated that much of the radiation-induced damage can be recovered by a simple thermal annealing schedule: the fracture toughness was incompletely recovered by 550 °C annealing, while nearly complete or complete recovery occurred after 650 °C annealing. This indicates that thermal annealing is a feasible damage mitigation technique for the reactor components made of HT9 steel. The partial recovery is probably due to the non-removable microstructural damages such as void or gas bubble formation, elemental segregation and precipitation.« less

Cohesive fracture of elastically heterogeneous materials: An integrative modeling and experimental study

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Wang, Neng; Xia, Shuman

2017-01-01

A combined modeling and experimental effort is made in this work to examine the cohesive fracture mechanisms of heterogeneous elastic solids. A two-phase laminated composite, which mimics the key microstructural features of many tough engineering and biological materials, is selected as a model material system. Theoretical and finite element analyses with cohesive zone modeling are performed to study the effective fracture resistance of the heterogeneous material associated with unstable crack propagation and arrest. A crack-tip-position controlled algorithm is implemented in the finite element analysis to overcome the inherent instability issues resulting from crack pinning and depinning at local heterogeneities. Systematic parametric studies are carried out to investigate the effects of various material and geometrical parameters, including the modulus mismatch ratio, phase volume fraction, cohesive zone size, and cohesive law shape. Concurrently, a novel stereolithography-based three-dimensional (3D) printing system is developed and used for fabricating heterogeneous test specimens with well-controlled structural and material properties. Fracture testing of the specimens is performed using the tapered double-cantilever beam (TDCB) test method. With optimal material and geometrical parameters, heterogeneous TDCB specimens are shown to exhibit enhanced effective fracture energy and effective fracture toughness than their homogeneous counterparts, which is in good agreement with the modeling predictions. The integrative computational and experimental study presented here provides a fundamental mechanistic understanding of the fracture mechanisms in brittle heterogeneous materials and sheds light on the rational design of tough materials through patterned heterogeneities.

Small-scale fracture toughness of ceramic thin films: the effects of specimen geometry, ion beam notching and high temperature on chromium nitride toughness evaluation

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Best, James P.; Zechner, Johannes; Wheeler, Jeffrey M.; Schoeppner, Rachel; Morstein, Marcus; Michler, Johann

2016-12-01

For the implementation of thin ceramic hard coatings into intensive application environments, the fracture toughness is a particularly important material design parameter. Characterisation of the fracture toughness of small-scale specimens has been a topic of great debate, due to size effects, plasticity, residual stress effects and the influence of ion penetration from the sample fabrication process. In this work, several different small-scale fracture toughness geometries (single-beam cantilever, double-beam cantilever and micro-pillar splitting) were compared, fabricated from a thin physical vapour-deposited ceramic film using a focused ion beam source, and then the effect of the gallium-milled notch on mode I toughness quantification investigated. It was found that notching using a focused gallium source influences small-scale toughness measurements and can lead to an overestimation of the fracture toughness values for chromium nitride (CrN) thin films. The effects of gallium ion irradiation were further studied by performing the first small-scale high-temperature toughness measurements within the scanning electron microscope, with the consequence that annealing at high temperatures allows for diffusion of the gallium to grain boundaries promoting embrittlement in small-scale CrN samples. This work highlights the sensitivity of some materials to gallium ion penetration effects, and the profound effect that it can have on fracture toughness evaluation.

Directionally Solidified NiAl-Based Alloys Studied for Improved Elevated-Temperature Strength and Room-Temperature Fracture Toughness

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Whittenberger, J. Daniel; Raj, Sai V.; Locci, Ivan E.; Salem, Jonathan A.

2000-01-01

Efforts are underway to replace superalloys used in the hot sections of gas turbine engines with materials possessing better mechanical and physical properties. Alloys based on the intermetallic NiAl have demonstrated potential; however, they generally suffer from low fracture resistance (toughness) at room temperature and from poor strength at elevated temperatures. Directional solidification of NiAl alloyed with both Cr and Mo has yielded materials with useful toughness and elevated-temperature strength values. The intermetallic alloy NiAl has been proposed as an advanced material to extend the maximum operational temperature of gas turbine engines by several hundred degrees centigrade. This intermetallic alloy displays a lower density (approximately 30-percent less) and a higher thermal conductivity (4 to 8 times greater) than conventional superalloys as well as good high-temperature oxidation resistance. Unfortunately, unalloyed NiAl has poor elevated temperature strength (approximately 50 MPa at 1027 C) and low room-temperature fracture toughness (about 5 MPa). Directionally solidified NiAl eutectic alloys are known to possess a combination of high elevated-temperature strength and good room-temperature fracture toughness. Research has demonstrated that a NiAl matrix containing a uniform distribution of very thin Cr plates alloyed with Mo possessed both increased fracture toughness and elevated-temperature creep strength. Although attractive properties were obtained, these alloys were formed at low growth rates (greater than 19 mm/hr), which are considered to be economically unviable. Hence, an investigation was warranted of the strength and toughness behavior of NiAl-(Cr,Mo) directionally solidified at faster growth rates. If the mechanical properties did not deteriorate with increased growth rates, directional solidification could offer an economical means to produce NiAl-based alloys commercially for gas turbine engines. An investigation at the NASA Glenn Research Center at Lewis Field was undertaken to study the effect of the directional solidification growth rate on the microstructure, room temperature fracture toughness, and strength at 1027 C of a Ni-33Al-31Cr-3Mo eutectic alloy. The directionally solidified rates varied between 7.6 and 508 millimeters per hour Essentially fault-free, alternating (Cr, Mo)/NiAl lamellar plate microstructures (left photograph) were formed during growth at and below 12.7 mm/hr, whereas cellular microstructures (right photograph) with the (Cr, Mo) phase in a radial spokelike pattern were developed at faster growth rates. The compressive strength at 1027 C continuously increased with increasing growth rate and did not indicate a maxima as was reported for directionally solidified Ni-33Al-34Cr. Surprisingly, samples with the lamellar plate microstructure (left photograph) possessed a room-temperature fracture toughness of approximately 12 MPa(sup square root of m), whereas all the alloys with a cellular microstructure had a toughness of about 17 MPa(sup square root of m). These results are significant since they clearly demonstrate that Ni-33Al-31Cr-3Mo can be directionally solidified at much faster growth rates without any observable deterioration in its mechanical properties. Thus, the potential to produce strong, tough NiAl-based eutectics at commercially acceptable growth rates exists. Additional testing and alloy optimization studies are underway.

Mechanical Performance Test of Rubber-Powder Modified Concrete

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Zhang, Yan Cong; Gao, Ling Ling

2018-06-01

A number of rubber cement concrete specimens that rubber powder dosage different were obtained using same cement, water and fine aggregates, by adjusting the dosage of rubber powder. Then it was used to research the influence of rubber powder dosage on performance of cement concrete by measuring its liquidity, strength and toughness. The results show that: when water-cement ratio was equal and rubber powder replacing the same volume sand, the fluidity of cement concrete almost linear increased with rubber powder dosage increasing. With dosage of rubber powder increasing, compressive strength and flexural strength reduced, but toughness linear growth trend when dosage of rubber powder less 30%.

The effect of microstructure on the fracture toughness of titanium alloys

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Vanstone, R. H.; Low, J. R., Jr.; Shannon, J. L., Jr.

1974-01-01

The microstructure of the alpha titanium alloy Ti-5Al-2.5Sn and the metastable beta titanium alloy Beta 3 was examined. The material was from normal and extra low interstitial grade plates which were either air-cooled or furnace-cooled from an annealing treatment. Beta 3 was studied in alpha-aged and omega-aged plates which were heat treated to similar strength levels. Tensile and plane strain fracture toughness tests were conducted at room temperature on the alpha-aged material. The microstructure and fracture mechanisms of alloys were studied using optical metallography, electron microscopy, microprobe analyses, and texture pole figures. Future experiments are described.

Interpenetrating polymer network approach to tougher and more microcracking resistant high temperature polymers. I - LaRC-RP40

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Pater, Ruth H.; Morgan, Cassandra D.

1988-01-01

Interpenetrating polymer networks in the form of the LaRC-RP40 resin, prepared by the in situ polymerization of a thermosetting imide prepolymer and thermoplastic monomer reactants, are presently used to obtain toughness and microcracking resistance in a high-temperature polymer. Attention is presently given to the processing, physical, and mechanical properties, as well as the thermooxidative stability, of both the neat resin and the resin as a graphite fiber-reinforced matrix. Microcracking after thermal cycling was also tested. LaRC-RP40 exhibits significant resin fracture toughness improvements over the PMR-15 high-temperature matrix resin.

Interpenetrating polymer network approach to tougher and more microcracking resistant high temperature polymers. I. LaRC-RP40

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Pater, R.H.; Morgan, C.D.

1988-10-01

Interpenetrating polymer networks in the form of the LaRC-RP40 resin, prepared by the in situ polymerization of a thermosetting imide prepolymer and thermoplastic monomer reactants, are presently used to obtain toughness and microcracking resistance in a high-temperature polymer. Attention is presently given to the processing, physical, and mechanical properties, as well as the thermooxidative stability, of both the neat resin and the resin as a graphite fiber-reinforced matrix. Microcracking after thermal cycling was also tested. LaRC-RP40 exhibits significant resin fracture toughness improvements over the PMR-15 high-temperature matrix resin. 16 references.

Effect of Time and Temperature on Transformation Toughened Zirconias.

DTIC Science & Technology

1987-06-01

room temperature. High temperature mechanical tests performed vere stress rupture and stepped temperature stress rupture. The results of the tests...tetragonal precipitates will spontaneously transform to the monoclinic phae due to the lattice mismatch stress if they become larger than about 0.2 on, with...specimens, including fast fracture and fracture toughness testing. High temper- ture testing consisting of stress rupture and stepped temperature stress

Effect of Explosion Bulge Test Parameters on the Measurement of Deformation Resistance for Steel

DTIC Science & Technology

2014-02-01

UNCLASSIFIED UNCLASSIFIED Effect of Explosion Bulge Test Parameters on the Measurement of Deformation Resistance for Steel C...Measurement of Deformation Resistance for Steel Executive Summary The Explosion Bulge Test has been used for over 60 years as a standard test for...the assessment of steel toughness and deformation resistance under blast loading conditions [1-3]. However, details of the test conditions vary

Natural Language Sourcebook

DTIC Science & Technology

1990-01-01

Identification of Syntactic Units Exemplar I.A. (#l) Problem (1) The tough coach the young. (2) The tough coach married a star. (3) The tough coach married ...34the tough" vs. "the tough coach" and (b) "people" vs. " married people." The problem could also be considered a problem of determining lexical...and " married " in example (2). Once the parser specifies a verb, the structure of the rest of the sentence is determined: specifying "coach" as a

Tough poly(arylene ether) thermoplastics as modifiers for bismaleimides

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Stenzenberger, H. D.; Roemer, W.; Hergenrother, P. M.; Jensen, B. J.

1989-01-01

Several aspects of research on thermoplastics as toughness modifiers are discussed, including the contribution of the backbone chemistry and the concentration of the poly(arylene ether) thermoplastic to fracture toughness, influence of the molecular weight of the poly(arylene ether) thermoplastic on neat resin fracture toughness, and the morphology of the thermoplastic modified networks. The results show that fracture toughness of brittle bismaleimide resins can be improved significantly with poly(arylene ether) thermoplastic levels of 20 percent by weight, and that high molecular weight poly(arylene ether) based on bisphenol A provides the highest degree of toughening. Preliminary composite evaluation shows that improvements in neat resin toughness translate into carbon fabric composite.

Foreign Object Damage Behavior of Two Gas-turbine Grade Silicon Nitrides by Steel Ball Projectiles at Ambient Temperature

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Choi, Sung R.; Pereira, J. Michael; Janosik, Lesley A.; Bhatt, Ramakrishna T.

2002-01-01

Foreign object damage (FOD) behavior of two commercial gas-turbine grade silicon nitrides, AS800 and SN282, was determined at ambient temperature through strength testing of flexure test specimens impacted by steel-ball projectiles with a diameter of 1.59 mm in a velocity range from 220 to 440 m/s. AS800 silicon nitride exhibited a greater FOD resistance than SN282, primarily due to its greater value of fracture toughness (K(sub IC)). Additionally, the FOD response of an equiaxed, fine-grained silicon nitride (NC132) was also investigated to provide further insight. The NC132 silicon nitride exhibited the lowest fracture toughness of the three materials tested, providing further evidence that K(sub IC) is a key material parameter affecting FOD resistance. The observed damage generated by projectile impact was typically in the forms of well- or ill-developed ring or cone cracks with little presence of radial cracks.

Effects of aggregate grading on the properties of steel fibre-reinforced concrete

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Acikgens Ulas, M.; Alyamac, K. E.; Ulucan, Z. C.

2017-09-01

This study investigates the effects of changing the aggregate grading and maximum aggregate size (D max ) on the workability and mechanical properties of steel fibre-reinforced concrete (SFRC). Four different gradations and two different D max were used to produce SFRC mixtures with constant cement dosages and water/cement ratios. Twelve different concrete series were tested. To observe the properties of fresh concrete, slump and Ve-Be tests were performed immediately after the mixing process to investigate the effects of time on workability. The hardened properties, such as the compressive, splitting tensile and flexural strengths, were also evaluated. In addition, the toughness of the SFRC was calculated. Based on our test results, we can conclude that the grading of the aggregate and the D max have remarkable effects on the properties of fresh and hardened SFRC. In addition, the toughness of the SFRC was influenced by changing the grading of the aggregate and the D max .

Scalable File Systems for High Performance Computing Final Report

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Brandt, S A

2007-10-03

Simulations of mode I interlaminar fracture toughness tests of a carbon-reinforced composite material (BMS 8-212) were conducted with LSDYNA. The fracture toughness tests were performed by U.C. Berkeley. The simulations were performed to investigate the validity and practicality of employing decohesive elements to represent interlaminar bond failures that are prevalent in carbon-fiber composite structure penetration events. The simulations employed a decohesive element formulation that was verified on a simple two element model before being employed to perform the full model simulations. Care was required during the simulations to ensure that the explicit time integration of LSDYNA duplicate the near steady-statemore » testing conditions. In general, this study validated the use of employing decohesive elements to represent the interlaminar bond failures seen in carbon-fiber composite structures, but the practicality of employing the elements to represent the bond failures seen in carbon-fiber composite structures during penetration events was not established.« less

Physical properties of a new sonically placed composite resin restorative material.

PubMed

Ibarra, Emily T; Lien, Wen; Casey, Jeffery; Dixon, Sara A; Vandewalle, Kraig S

2015-01-01

A new nanohybrid composite activated by sonic energy has been recently introduced as a single-step, bulk-fill restorative material. The purpose of this study was to compare the physical properties of this new composite to various other composite restorative materials marketed for posterior or bulk-fill placement. The following physical properties were examined: depth of cure, volumetric shrinkage, flexural strength, flexural modulus, fracture toughness, and percent porosity. A mean and standard deviation were determined per group. One-way ANOVA and Tukey's post hoc tests were performed per property (α = 0.05). Percent porosity was evaluated with a Kruskal-Wallis/Mann-Whitney test (α = 0.005). Significant differences were found between groups (P < 0.001) per test type. Compared to the other composite restorative materials, the new nanohybrid composite showed low shrinkage and percent porosity, moderate fracture toughness and flexural modulus, and high flexural strength. However, it also demonstrated a relatively reduced depth of cure compared to the other composites.

Reinforcement of a PMMA resin for interim fixed prostheses with silica nanoparticles.

PubMed

Topouzi, Marianthi; Kontonasaki, Eleana; Bikiaris, Dimitrios; Papadopoulou, Lambrini; Paraskevopoulos, Konstantinos M; Koidis, Petros

2017-05-01

Fractures in long span provisional/interim restorations are a common complication. Adequate fracture toughness is necessary to resist occlusal forces and crack propagation, so these restorations should be constructed with materials of improved mechanical properties. The aim of this study was to investigate the possible reinforcement of neat silica nanoparticles and trietoxyvinylsilane-modified silica nanoparticles in a PMMA resin for fixed interim restorations. Composite PMMA-Silica nanoparticles powders were mixed with PMMA liquid and compact bar shaped specimens were fabricated according to the British standard BS EN ISO 127337:2005. The single-edge notched method was used to evaluate fracture toughness (three-point bending test), while the dynamic thermomechanical properties (Storage Modulus, Loss Modulus, tanδ) of a series of nanocomposites with different amounts of nanoparticles (0.25%, 0.50%, 0.75%, 1% w.t.) were evaluated. Statistical analysis was performed and the statistically significant level was set to p<0.05. The fracture toughness of all experimental composites was remarkably higher compared to control. There was a tendency to decrease of fracture toughness, by increasing the concentration of the filler. No statistically significant differences were detected among the modified/unmodified silica nanoparticles. Dynamic mechanical properties were also affected. By increasing the silica nanoparticles content an increase in Storage Modulus was recorded, while Glass Transition Temperature was shifted at higher temperatures. Under the limitations of this in-vitro study, it can be suggested that both neat silica nanoparticles and trietoxyvinylsilane-modified silica nanoparticles, especially at low concentrations, may enhance the overall performance of fixed interim prostheses, as can effectively increase the fracture toughness, the elastic modulus and the Glass Transition Temperature of PMMA resins used in fixed provisional restorations. Copyright © 2017 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

Correlations between leaf toughness and phenolics among species in contrasting environments of Australia and New Caledonia

PubMed Central

Read, Jennifer; Sanson, Gordon D.; Caldwell, Elizabeth; Clissold, Fiona J.; Chatain, Alex; Peeters, Paula; Lamont, Byron B.; De Garine-Wichatitsky, Michel; Jaffré, Tanguy; Kerr, Stuart

2009-01-01

Background and Aims Plants are likely to invest in multiple defences, given the variety of sources of biotic and abiotic damage to which they are exposed. However, little is known about syndromes of defence across plant species and how these differ in contrasting environments. Here an investigation is made into the association between carbon-based chemical and mechanical defences, predicting that species that invest heavily in mechanical defence of leaves will invest less in chemical defence. Methods A combination of published and unpublished data is used to test whether species with tougher leaves have lower concentrations of phenolics, using 125 species from four regions of Australia and the Pacific island of New Caledonia, in evergreen vegetation ranging from temperate shrubland and woodland to tropical shrubland and rainforest. Foliar toughness was measured as work-to-shear and specific work-to-shear (work-to-shear per unit leaf thickness). Phenolics were measured as ‘total phenolics’ and by protein precipitation (an estimate of tannin activity) per leaf dry mass. Key Results Contrary to prediction, phenolic concentrations were not negatively correlated with either measure of leaf toughness when examined across all species, within regions or within any plant community. Instead, measures of toughness (particularly work-to-shear) and phenolics were often positively correlated in shrubland and rainforest (but not dry forest) in New Caledonia, with a similar trend suggested for shrubland in south-western Australia. The common feature of these sites was low concentrations of soil nutrients, with evidence of P limitation. Conclusions Positive correlations between toughness and phenolics in vegetation on infertile soils suggest that additive investment in carbon-based mechanical and chemical defences is advantageous and cost-effective in these nutrient-deficient environments where carbohydrate may be in surplus. PMID:19098067