REVIEW—Transformation Toughening in Ceramics: Martensitic Transformations in Crack‐Tip Stress Fields

Abstract

The toughness of ceramics can be substantially enhanced by inducing a martensitic transformation in the stress field of the dominant crack. The specific characteristics of martensitic transformations pertinent to this toughening process are examined in this paper. A generalized model of the toughening is developed, which indicates the specific roles of the transformation parameters on the expected magnitude of the toughening. Finally, the implications of the analysis for the development of high‐toughness ceramics are discussed.