Instrumented Materials Testing

Abstract

This presentation starts with an introduction to the need for materials testing. Classic failures (such as brittle ship hull fractures) are discussed before fundamental discoveries in fracture analysis (Griffith, Westergaard, and Irwin). Next standard tests are identified, followed by a look at brittle versus ductile failure. Griffith's result (the composite paradigm) that smaller composite specimens are stronger because they have smaller flaws, is covered. This leads into composite tests. And finally, stress waves are shown as an example that will initiate damage.