Atomistic aspects at brittle fracture

In this study, the phenomenon of 'lattice trapping' first identified by Thomson was addressed. For this purpose, an attempt was made to examine the cases where lattice trapping can contribute significantly to the difference between the observed energy-release rate for crack propagation and the work necessary to create two surfaces. It was found that the phenomenon gives rise to directional anisotropy and cleavage along surfaces that are not low in energy.