Fracture behavior of polycrystalline advanced ceramics as a function of loading rate and temperature

Polycrystalline advanced ceramics are composite materials produced by the reaction of tungsten metal powder and carbon powder in a metal binder at temperatures of 1,400-1,500 degrees C. This process enables them a high hardness and abrasion resistance in all directions. The mode I fracture behaviour of single-edge-V-notched-beam specimens was investigated as a function of loading rate and temperature. A series of tests was conducted and plane strain fracture toughness values were determined at a range of loading rates and temperatures, as those in real operating conditions. These experimental results reveal a fracture mechanism establishing a clear connection between the fracture toughness results and the mechanisms causing fracture to happen.