Tensile Fracture Research Articles

Functionalization of calcium-deficient nanohydroxyapatite improves the mechanical properties of 3D printed biopolymer nanocomposites

Agglomerations of nanoparticles in a polymer matrix can drastically reduce the mechanical properties of a polymer nanocomposite, especially its strength. The grafting of nanoparticle surfaces with suitable functional groups can provide improved dispersion and stronger interfacial bonding, improving the fracture resistance of the nanocomposite. In this study, calcium-deficient nanohydroxyapatite (nHA) particles were functionalized with an amino acid-based urethane methacrylate (lysine urethane methacrylate, LUM) and subsequently reacted with hydroxyethyl methacrylate. We mixed these functionalized nHA particles with resin, composed of methacrylated acrylated epoxidized soybean oil, methacrylated isosorbide, and triethylene glycol dimethacrylate, and 3D-printed nanocomposites using masked stereolithography. We hypothesized that the functionalized nanoparticles would enhance the mechanical performance of the 3D-printed nanocomposites due to the greater dispersion and stronger interface. Flexural, tensile, compression and Mode-I fracture toughness test specimens were fabricated using a mSLA printer and tested following ASTM standards. The LUM functionalization of nHA improved the dispersion and increased the viscosity of the uncured nanocomposite ink. The flexural fracture strength, yield strength, and mode-I fracture toughness values were increased by 10 %, 30 %, and 11 %, respectively. The LUM improved the strength and fracture toughness by providing a stronger, more stable interface, resisting debonding between the matrix and particles, allowing for greater plastic deformation.

Stochastic fracture of concrete composites: A mesoscale methodology

The accurate prediction of concrete composites’ fracture behaviour requires precise meso-structural characterization, appropriate fracture modelling, and pivotal uncertainty assessment. Towards this goal, we adopt a dynamics approach with CT images to generate numerical concrete models using real aggregates with 30%-60% contents. An image slicing method is then developed to obtain a large number of realistic models in 2D, whose heterogeneity is characterised by aggregates, mortar and interfaces. Monte Carlo simulations of uniaxial tension are performed, incorporating cross-scale fracture evolution through a phase-field cohesive zone model. Statistical analyses reveal that the stochasticity of crack patterns and stress-displacement curves, especially post-peak softening responses, is inherently dependent on the random meso-structures. It is observed that increasing aggregate content accelerates the deterioration rate of peak stress, decreases the softening curve, and leads to more tortuous crack paths, considering the ITZ crack channels. On the other hand, the tensile strength of mortar has significant impacts on the load-carrying capacity, while the fracture energy primarily influences the ductility and has negligible effects on the peak stress and the pre-peak nonlinear part. Besides, the ratios of mortar-ITZ tensile strength and fracture energy are found to affect the crack paths. The proposed numerical framework holds promise to reveal complex fracture mechanisms of concrete with more insights into other loading or environmental conditions.

Microstructure and mechanical properties of SiC fiber/Si-CoSi2 matrix composites fabricated by carbon chemical vapor infiltration and Si alloy melt infiltration process

For this study, orthogonal three dimensional (3D) woven silicon carbide (SiC) fiber (Hi-Nicalon, Hi-Nicalon Type S) -reinforced Si-CoSi2 matrix composites (SiC fiber/Si-CoSi2 composites) were fabricated and the microstructures and mechanical properties were characterized. The SiC fibers (28% fiber volume fraction) woven into orthogonal 3D fabrics and used as reinforcement were coated with chemical vapor infiltration (CVI)-carbon to control the fiber–matrix interface. The composite material infiltrated with Si-CoSi2 was produced using a melt-infiltration process. Four-point bending tests conducted at room temperature showed bending strength exceeding 300 MPa and tensile fracture strain exceeding 0.7%. Furthermore, bending strength greater than 400 MPa was found from a high-temperature four-point bending test under an Ar atmosphere. The failure mode was quasi-ductile. Fiber pull-out and fiber cross-linking were observed clearly. Melt infiltration of the Si-Co alloy caused little damage to the SiC fibers, confirming CVI-C layer protection of the fibers during melt infiltration and confirming that the layer can control mechanical properties at the fiber–matrix interface.

Enhancement of tensile strength and fracture toughness characteristics of banana fibre reinforced epoxy composites with nano MgO fillers

Natural fibre reinforced polymer composites have drawn the attention of researchers in the creation of novel materials suitable for industrial applications. These polymer composites have favourable mechanical characteristics. Epoxy polymer's versatility and diversity make it suitable for a wide range of industrial applications. The mould casting technique approach was utilised in this work to develop polymer composites using alkali-treated banana fibres and filled with MgO nanoparticle. The study was conducted on the characteristics of Nano MgO, as well as its mechanical qualities such as fracture toughness and surface morphology. The incorporation of Nano MgO enhanced the fracture toughness of the polymer composites with the addition of 1 % MgO. The scanning electron microscopy analysis of the surface morphology revealed the presence of brittle fracture in the specimen.

Исследования соединений AA7075, сваренных трением с перемешиванием и ультразвуковым воздействием: механические свойства и анализ разрушения

Introduction. Joint efficiency and strength, particularly in aluminum alloys, are crucial in aerospace, defense, and industrial applications. Post-welding treatments like shot peening and laser shock peening significantly improve joint efficiency and strength, enhancing fatigue life, grain structure, and tensile strength. The purpose of the work. The literature reviewed shows that the ultrasonic vibration-assisted friction stir welding (UVaFSW) and post-weld treatment improved the mechanical properties and material flow. However, limited studies have been observed on the UVaFSW joints of AA7075-T651, considering the consequence of welding speed, tool rotation, and post-weld shot peeing treatment. The methods of investigation. The study investigates the ultrasonic vibration-assisted friction stir welded (UVaFSwed) AA7075-T651 joint's tensile strength, microhardness, microstructure, and fracture behavior, considering the impact of tool rotation, welding speed, and post-weld shot peening treatment. Results and Discussion. The post-weld treated shot-peened UVaFSWed joints demonstrated the maximum tensile strength of 373.43 MPa, the microhardness of 161 HV, and the lowest surface roughness of 15.16 µm at 40 mm/min welding speed when compared to the friction stir-welded (FSWed) joints. These results indicate that shot peening improved the mechanical properties and surface quality of the UVaFSWed joints. The high tensile strength and low surface roughness make these joints suitable for applications requiring strength and aesthetics. The fracture for the shot peened UVaFSWed joints mainly occurred in the heat-affected zone (HAZ) during the tensile test. It could be attributed to the higher temperature experienced during welding, which resulted in grain growth and decreased material strength in the HAZ. The shot-peened UVaFSWed joint has a more uniform grain distribution than the FSWed one, which contributed to the joint's higher tensile strength. The fractured surface of the shot peened UVaFSWed joints showed larger, equiaxed, and shallow dimples, resulting in higher ultimate tensile strength (UTS) and microhardness compared to the conventional FSWed joints. The mechanical properties and microstructure observed in the welding zones of shot peened UVaFSWed joints are superior to those of conventional FSW joints. However, further investigation is required to determine the specific factors contributing to this localized failure at HAZ, considering the effects of shot peening parameters. This study also suggests the potential for optimizing shot peened UVaFSWed joints of AA7075-T651.

Mechanically robust and electrically conductive nanofiber composites with enhanced interfacial interaction for strain sensing

Electrically conductive fiberfibre/fabric composites (ECFCs) are competitive candidates for use in wearable electronics. Therefore, it is essential to develop mechanically robust ECFC strain sensors with sensing performance. In this study, MXene assembly and hot-pressing were combined to prepare strong yet breathable ECFCs for strain and temperature sensing. Hydrogen bonding between MXene and polyurethane (PU) and ultrasonication-induced interfacial sintering were responsible for MXene nanosheets assembly on the PU nanofibers. MXene decoration made PU nanofibers electrically conductive, resulting in a conductive network. Hot-pressing improved interface adhesion among the conductive nanofibers. Thus, the mechanical properties of the nanofiber composites, including tensile strength, toughness and fracture energy, were enhanced. The nanofiber composites exhibited surface stability and durability. When the nanofiber composites were used as strain sensors, they showed breathability with a linear resistance response ranging from 1 % to 100 % and cycling stability. In addition, they produced stable sensing signals over 1000 cycles when a notch was present. They could also monitor temperature variations with a negative temperature coefficient (−0.146 %/°C). This study provides an interfacial regulation method for the preparation of multi-functional nanofiber composites with potential applications in flexible and wearable electronics.

Valorization of magnesium slag and CO2 towards a low carbon fiber reinforced cement board

Pyrometallurgical extraction of magnesium from dolomite ores results in a large amount of magnesium slag discharge and CO2 emission, posing severe environmental hazards. This study introduces a new approach for the simultaneous upcycling of magnesium slag and CO2 by taking advantage of the high carbonation reactivity of magnesium slag. A CO2-solidified magnesium slag-based fiber cement board with high-strength and high-toughness (CHFCB) is developed, using magnesium slag as the binder, CO2 as the activator, and a mix of pulp and PAN fibers as the reinforcement. The optimal CHFCB preparation process was explored by adjusting the fiber ratio, molding pressure, and CO2 curing system, and the mechanisms underlying its strength and toughness were analyzed. The results indicated that with the optimal preparation, CHFCB exhibited a water-saturated flexural strength of nearly 20 MPa and a drying flexural strength of over 25 MPa. The ultimate deflection could be increased by up to 80 % or more during the bending deformation of CHFCB, while the tensile strain could be improved by over 50 % in the tensile fracture process of CHFCB. After 100 freeze-thaw cycles, the water-saturated flexural strength ratio of CHFCB reached 97.2 %, showing excellent durability. The microanalysis revealed that the dense stacking of calcite-type calcium carbonate and the presence of PAN fibers contributed to the high-strength and high-toughness of CHFCB. Additionally, the environmental and economic benefits of CHFCB were assessed, affirming its role as a sustainable building material that promotes energy efficiency and a green economy.

Study of Quenching and Partitioning (Q&P) and Ultrasonic Surface Rolling (USR) Process on Microstructure and Mechanical Property of a High-Strength Martensitic Steel.

Steel with a combination of strength and plasticity is prevalently demanded for lightweight design and emission reductions in manufacturing. In this study, a high-strength Cr-Ni-Mo martensitic steel treated by quenching and partitioning (Q&P) and ultrasonic surface rolling (USR) processes was studied for both strength and plasticity enhancement. Specimens were austenitized at 850 °C and then quenched to 240 °C via cooling by water, oil, and normalization in quenching. This was followed by partitioning, in which two groups of specimens were heated to 370 °C and 350 °C for 45 min, respectively. At last, all the specimens were quenched to room temperature with the same methods of quenching. The highest tensile strength increased from 681.73 MPa to 1389.76 MPa when compared to as-received (AR) steel after the Q&P process. The USR process with a static force of 800 N further improved the tensile strength of specimens with high tensile strength after the Q&P process, which improved from 1389.76 MPa to 1586.62 MPa and the product's strength and elongation (PSE) increased from 15.76 GPa% to 15.9 GPa%, while the total elongation showed a mitigatory decrease from 11.34% to 10.02%. Tensile fractures were also studied and verified using a combination of strength and plasticity after a combined process of Q&P and USR.

Annealing-induced multi-heterogeneous microstructure strengthening in FeCoCrNiMo0.2 high-entropy alloys

In this study, by conducting cryogenic rolling (CR) followed by short-term annealing (CRA), we achieved the annealing-induced hardening in a single-phase FCC FeCoCrNiMo0.2 high-entropy alloy by introducing multiple heterostructures structures. Through this approach, the yield strength, ultimate tensile strength and tensile fracture elongation of CRA alloy were increased from 1116.8 MPa to 1286.1 MPa, 1363.2 MPa to 1576.3 MPa and 5.4–6.9 %, respectively. Furthermore, a broader steady state of strain softening behavior was found in the CRA alloy, which is attributed to the additional strengthening and hardening effects resulting from high density of deformation nanotwins and phase transformations. Additionally, the research results show that the ultra-high strength and sufficient ductility of CRA alloy are attributed to the synergistic effect of multiple mechanisms, such as strengthening induced by heterogeneous microstructure of σ precipitate/HCP phase/FCC matrix phase, and high work hardening ability caused by the heterogeneity of high density deformation nanotwins, geometrically necessary dislocations (GND), stacking faults (SFs) and Lomer-Cottrell locks (L-C locks) nano-scale defects. This work provides useful insights for alloys that involves multiple heterogeneous microstructures strengthening and provides a promising approach for the design and manufacture of high-strength structural materials.

Sandstone breaking performances and mechanisms of swirling abrasive waterjet during radial jet drilling process

Radial jet drilling (RJD) is one of the emerging hydrocarbon drilling technologies. And, the swirling abrasive waterjet (SAWJ) is expected to drill larger diameter laterals during RJD. Here, the performances and mechanisms of SAWJ breaking sandstone were studied by laboratory experiments. Results showed that the SAWJ could drill a smooth (surface roughness was 0.043 mm) & large (diameter was in 52.0–73.0 mm) circular hole on sandstone. The hole depth/volume increased as the jetting pressure, abrasive mass concentration and exposure time increased. Conversely, they decreased as the standoff distance increased. The optimal parameter combination under our experimental conditions was 30 MPa, 0 mm, 12% and 1 min. The SAWJ sandstone breaking mechanism were the erosion of cements, the integrally peeled off and broken of crystal grain. Failure mode of sandstone was mainly the tensile fracture. The key findings will provide guidance for the application of SAWJ in RJD technology.

Study on the tensile properties of 3D printing cell structure based on fractal theory

Abstract Using lightweight technology involves optimizing materials, structures, and manufacturing processes to reduce structural weight while meeting performance standards. This technology has emerged as pivotal in advancing the next generation of aerospace equipment. This study employed the 3D printing method using PLA material to produce tensile test specimens of three structures: the concave hexagonal, bionic feather, and standard structures. Tensile and finite element simulation tests were conducted to assess their tensile properties. By comparing crack propagation paths under tensile load, the impact of these paths on structure fracture toughness was analyzed using fractal theory. The findings reveal that distinct structures exhibit varied fracture toughness due to differing crack propagation paths during tensile fracture. Fractal dimensions were calculated for each structure: 1.491 for the concave hexagonal structure, 1.488 for the bionic feather structure, and 1.465 for the standard structure. These dimensions suggest that the concave hexagonal structure possesses the highest fracture toughness among the three structures.

Effects of high-intensity ultraviolet irradiation on the structure and mechanical properties of Sisal fibers

Abstract To explore the impact of high-intensity ultraviolet light on the structure and mechanical properties of sisal fibers, the article uses chemical methods in the sisal fiber surface silver-plated, untreated, and alkali-treated sisal fibers as a comparison, with the help of scanning electron microscopy, infrared spectroscopy on the fiber surface topography, the molecular structure of the research, determination of high-intensity ultraviolet irradiation under the mechanical tensile properties of the fiber. Exposure to high-intensity ultraviolet radiation for a brief period results in a reduction in the tensile strength, fracture elongation, and elastic modulus of untreated, alkali-treated, and chemically silver-plated sisal fibers by 95.2%, 77.7%, 55.9%, 92.8%, 76.9%, 42.1%, and 89.4%, 70.2%, 34.2%, respectively.

Modeling and evaluation of the fracture resistance of alkali-resistant glass fibre reinforced concrete under different loading rates

Alkali-resistant glass fibre reinforced concrete (AR-GFRC) has garnered significant interest due to its economic and environmental friendliness. Given the critical importance of evaluating the crack resistance of AR-GFRC under dynamic loading conditions and the size effect inherent in determined fracture parameters using traditional methods, this study aims to propose an analytical approach based on the boundary effect model. The goal is to predict the realistic dynamic tensile strength (ft) and fracture toughness (KIC) while elucidating the rate sensitivity of fracture resistance. Three-point bending tests were conducted on AR-GFRC with three different fibre volumes to investigate dynamic fracture behaviors under varying loading rates. By introducing discrete parameter and the microstructure characteristic parameter that account for material discontinuity and heterogeneity, the realistic dynamic ft and KIC of AR-GFRC can be directly obtained as closed-form solutions upon determining the maximum fracture load from the tests. The results revealed a substantial increase in ft and KIC with an improvement in the loading rate. However, due to relatively weakened fibre activities, the enhancement of dynamic fracture resistance decreases with the increase in fibre content and loading rate.

Sacrificial hydrogen bonds enhance the performance of covalently crosslinked composite films derived from soy protein isolate and dialdehyde starch

Soy protein films have the advantage of being eco-friendly and renewable, but their practical applications are hindered by the mechanical properties. The exceptional tensile strength and fracture toughness of natural silk stem from sacrificial hydrogen bonds it contains that effectively dissipates energy. In this study, we draw inspiration from silk's structural principles to create biodegradable films based on soy protein isolate (SPI). Notably, composite films containing sodium lignosulfonate (LS) demonstrate exceptional strain at break (up to 153%) due to the augmentation of reversible hydrogen bonding, contrasted to films with the addition of solely dialdehyde starch (DAS). The enhancement of tensile strength is realized through a combination of Schiff base cross-linking and sacrificial hydrogen bonding. Furthermore, the incorporation of LS markedly improves the films' ultraviolet (UV) blocking capabilities and hydrophobicity. This innovative design strategy holds great promise for advancing the production of eco-friendly SPI-based films that combine strength and toughness.

Influence of Wire Feeding Speed on the Morphology and Properties of Stainless Steel Laser Welding Joints

Abstract Using laser filler wire welding technology, welded joints were produced at varying wire feeding speeds. The microstructure and mechanical attributes of these joints were then examined through optical metallography, scanning electron microscopy, universal tensile testing, and microhardness testing. It demonstrates that superior surface formation and defect-free welded joints can be achieved through the filling wire welding process. The main components are austenite and ferrite, with slightly varying morphology and content. Through the results of tensile tests and fracture microstructure scanning, when the rate of wire supply is 2.0 meters per minute, the tensile strength reaches 650 MPa. The second phase particles were discovered in the fracture scan. According to microhardness measurements, the overall hardness of the welded joints at different wire feeding speeds is higher than that of the base material.

Effect of Different Skew Angle on Tensile Fracture Behavior of SiC Fiber Monofilament

Abstract In fiber reinforced composites (FRP), silicon carbide fiber is indispensable. Its mechanical properties determine the performance of ceramic matrix composites. Therefore, the tensile and fracture behavior of silicon carbide fiber monofilaments should be studied in depth. In order to make the test results of fiber properties more accurate, this paper takes SiC fiber monofilament as the research object, carries out tensile tests at different deflection angles, and carries out WEIBULL statistical analysis and comparison of the data. The microscopic morphology of the tensile fracture of each single fiber was observed by SEM, and the change rule of the mechanical properties and fracture behavior of the fiber with the deflection angle was summarized, and whether the slight deflection affected the test results was explored. The results showed that: (1) The mechanical properties of SiC fiber monofilament decreased gradually with the increase of deflection angle, and the extent of decline gradually increased. (2) With the increase of deflection angle, the proportion of stepped fracture gradually increases, and that of flat fracture gradually decreases.

Impact of injection pressure and polyaxial stress on hydraulic fracture propagation and permeability evolution in graywacke: Insights from discrete element models of a laboratory test

Understanding the hydromechanical behavior and permeability stress sensitivity of hydraulic fractures is fundamental for geotechnical applications associated with fluid injection. This paper presents a three-dimensional (3D) benchmark model of a laboratory experiment on graywacke to examine the dynamic hydraulic fracturing process under a polyaxial stress state. In the numerical model, injection pressures after breakdown (postbreakdown) are varied to study the impact on fracture growth. The fluid pressure front and crack front are identified in the numerical model to analyze the dynamic relationship between fluid diffusion and fracture propagation. Following the hydraulic fracturing test, the polyaxial stresses are rotated to investigate the influence of the stress field rotation on the fracture slip behavior and permeability. The results show that fracture propagation guides fluid diffusion under a high postbreakdown injection pressure. The crack front runs ahead of the fluid pressure front. Under a low postbreakdown injection pressure, the fluid pressure front gradually reaches the crack front, and fluid diffusion is the main driving factor of fracture propagation. Under polyaxial stress conditions, fluid injection not only opens tensile fractures but also induces hydroshearing. When the polyaxial stress is rotated, the fracture slip direction of a fully extended fracture is consistent with the shear stress direction. The fracture slip direction of a partly extended fracture is influenced by the increase in shear stress. Normal stress affects the permeability evolution by changing the average mechanical aperture. Shear stress can induce shearing and sliding on the fracture plane, thereby increasing permeability.

Research on the In Situ Tensile Fracture Behavior of Q355E Steel and Its Welded Joints Based on Acoustic Emission

Research on the In Situ Tensile Fracture Behavior of Q355E Steel and Its Welded Joints Based on Acoustic Emission

Ductility fracture mechanisms of Al-7Si-Mg casting alloys considering Si particles: A combined experimental and crystal plasticity study

Al-7Si-Mg casting alloys are widely utilized for their excellent formability, though they commonly exhibit poor ductility. This study comprehensively investigates the factors influencing the ductility of Al-7Si-Mg casting alloys, proposing a fracture mechanism and developing a model for ductile fracture of the alloy. Tensile tests were conducted on samples subjected to different aging times, with analysis of the alloy’s microstructure and tensile fracture surfaces. The findings reveal that fracture initiation occurs at clusters formed by the aggregation of Si particles, followed by the coalescence of cracks within these clusters, leading to macroscopic fracture. Different tensile strains were applied to specimens subjected to under-aging and over-aging treatments. The distribution of geometrically necessary dislocations (GNDs) in stretched samples indicates that the Si cluster area undergoes greater localized plastic deformation compared to the Al matrix, and this disparity increases with the applied strain. It has been observed that the reduced elongation observed in over-aged alloys is due to the coalescence of Si clusters under lower strain conditions. Representative volume elements with the characteristics of Si cluster is proposed, and the crystal plasticity finite element method is used for tensile simulations. The simulation results show that the proposed model is more consistent with experimental findings pertaining to elongation than with the results of a conventional void model. A longer aging time reduces ductility owing to a more intense strain localization under same tensile strain.

Effect of gradient nanostructures on the damage mechanism of aermet100 steel at various strain rates

The introduction of nano-scale grains, which form a gradient nanostructure (GNS) within the material, usually increases the service life of metallic materials. In this study, the uniaxial tensile mechanical properties of AerMet100 steel in initial and GNS states under different strain rate conditions were compared, and the microanalysis of tensile fracture was performed. It is found that GNS has little effect on the mechanical properties of AerMet100 but has an effect on its damage mode. The initial AerMet100 was basically ductile fracture, and GNS increased the brittle fracture mode in AerMet100.