ISSN: 1945-7553
CODEN: JTEVAB
Page Count: 4

Theoretical Comparison of Error in K_Ic Values Determined by Different Testing Methods of Ceramics

Martins, CS
Ph.D. Student, Institute for Advanced Materials, J.R.C., Petten,

Steen, M
Scientific Officer, Institute for Advanced Materials, J.R.C., Petten,

Rosa, LG
Associate Professor, Instituto Superior Tecnico, Lisboa Codex,

(Received 14 May 1990; accepted 26 November 1990)

Abstract

Experimental errors in measuring the values of the different variables included in the formulae for K_Ic evaluation can affect the accuracy of fracture toughness results. In this work, the effect of error propagation, leading to the final error in the K_Ic value, is analyzed in terms of type of testing method and specimen geometry.

A review of eight different specimen geometries and procedures for fracture toughness testing of ceramics is given. The analysis was carried out through a FORTRAN 77 program specially developed for this purpose. The computer program takes into account the allowable errors that are associated with each type of recommended experimental procedure or common practice. Results obtained on hot-pressed silicon nitride (HP Si₃N₄) are presented as an example, but the conclusions can be extended to other engineering ceramics.

Keywords:
ceramics, error analysis, fracture toughness tests

Paper ID: JTE12565J
DOI: 10.1520/JTE12565J
ASTM International is a member of CrossRef.