Impact Damage in Brittle Materials in the Plastic Response Regime.

Abstract

The impact damage created in the plastic response regime has been characterized in terms of the surface extension and the penetration of the fractures. A numerical dynamic analysis has been performed (of a typical impact within this regime) to indicate some of the principal characteristics of the contact behavior and the stress field. The damage has then been analyzed - using simplified postulates based on key features of the impact dynamics and the quasi-static indentation fracture - which has enabled the primary material and target parameters affecting the impact fracture to be identified. Thereafter, some implications for strength degradation and erosion have been discussed. (Author)