Method and apparatus for testing material samples in standard tests for evaluating in-plane fracture toughness

摘要

A method in which a sample of material of the type used in the walls of a structure is tested in a standard test for in-plane fracture toughness evaluation. The method includes obtaining a sample having a lateral length no greater than the thickness of the walls of the structure; The sample may comprise (a) a bottom surface, (b) a contoured top surface having a central notch, (c) a first engagement feature on the first side of the central notch, and (d) a second side of the central notch Molding to have a second coupling feature on the phase; Assembling a test piece to increase the width of the sample beyond the lateral width by engaging a first side extension to the first engagement feature and engaging a second side extension to the second engagement feature; And applying a standard fracture toughness test to the assembled specimen and sample to evaluate the fracture toughness of the sample.