Effect of Electrolyte pH on Crack Propagation in Glass

Abstract

Crack velocities in glass in various acids, bases, and neutral solutions were studied using the double‐cantilever‐beam technique. Results are explained in terms of crack‐tip pH, which is controlled by the electrolyte at low crack velocities and by the glass composition at high velocities. The crack‐velocity data are consistent with the known dependence of strength on pH for soda‐lime silicate glass. Results also suggest that the slope of the universal fatigue curve should depend on surface pH.