Abstract
The “sandwiched beam” (SB) and “opposite roller loading” (ORL) methodologies suitable to introduce sharp through-thickness cracks in brittle materials are critically reviewed and compared in this work. In both cases a sharp crack is obtained in a notched specimen by means of a suitable loading. In the SB technique the specimen is placed between two support bars and bent in a 3- or 4-point configuration. The ORL procedure is based on the symmetrical loading by four rollers which induces a local tensile stress. Results show that both techniques are successfully usable on brittle materials: in both cases suitable specimens are obtained for fracture toughness measurements. The crack length can be reasonably controlled and varies in a wide range. The SB procedure typically provides cracks with α≌0.5, while shorter cracks are obtained by the ORL technique. Fracture toughness is measured on specimens prepared using the two techniques. The obtained values result in good agreement with literature data.
Sign-in/Register to access full text options 
Talk to us
Join us for a 30 min session where you can share your feedback and ask us any queries you have
Schedule a callDisclaimer: All third-party content on this website/platform is and will remain the property of their respective owners and is provided on "as is" basis without any warranties, express or implied. Use of third-party content does not indicate any affiliation, sponsorship with or endorsement by them. Any references to third-party content is to identify the corresponding services and shall be considered fair use under The CopyrightLaw.
