Study on fracture failure behaviour of sapphire transparent window under ultra-high hydrostatic pressure

Abstract

ABSTRACT Accurately predicting the fracture damage behaviour of light transmission windows is crucial in the design of deep-sea optoelectronic devices. This study proposes a simulation model based on the exponential cohesive zone law to predict the fracture failure of sapphire transparent windows (STW) under multi-dimensional load conditions. By utilising finite element simulation technology, the model accurately determine the fracture damage morphology and failure location of STW in different assembly structure schemes under a hydrostatic pressure of 127 MPa. These simulation results are then effectively validated through full sea depth pressure test experiments. Furthermore, by analyzing the simulation data, this study uncovers the internal mechanism of the fracture damage process of STW and presents a method to predict the fracture damage of STW. This research enhances the understanding of fracture behaviour in light transmission windows and offers valuable insights for the design and development of deep-sea optoelectronic devices.