Crack Propagation in MG-PSZ
ABSTRACTCertain coarse-grained Mg-PSZ's exhibit marked R-curve behavior, e.g., the crack resistance increases from ∼5 to ∼15 MPam1/2 with the first 500 microns of crack extension. These high toughness materials also show unusually-good flaw tolerance.Crack propagation and crack path development in Mg-PSZ were investigated during stable crack growth using a modified DCB specimen geometry. Crack extension was monitored with a traveling microscope equipped with a video recording system. PSZ's with various heat-treatments were tested to determine the effect of microstructure on R-curve behavior.Cracks were found to propagate discontinuously and to arrest. Smaller microcracks would develop around the arrested crack, and link together to form the macrocrack which led to eventual failure.