Nonlinear Fracture Mechanics of Ferroelectric Materials

Abstract

This chapter presents recent theoretical works on the nonlinear fracture of piezoelectric/ferroelectric materials. Firstly, the nonlinear fracture mechanics models for ferroelectric materials are briefly reviewed including the nonlinear electrostriction fracture model, the Duldale fracture model and the domain-switch toughening model. Then, our theoretical works on the anisotropic switching toughening model and the nonlinear COD model are presented. Finally, our experimental works on the in-situ observation of crack propagation and domain switch are provided, and comparison with theoretical predictions is given.