Interfacial crack initiation under quasi-static and dynamic loading conditions: An experimental study

Interfacial fracture parameters under quasi-static and dynamic loading are examined in a large elastic mismatch bimaterial system. A wide range of remote field loading ratios of shear and tension are considered. The crack tip fields are mapped using the optical method of coherent gradient sensing or CGS and fracture parameters are quantified. Distinctly different crack initiation responses are observed for positive and negative shear stresses acting on the interface. Also, low velocity impact loading experiments are conducted to study the influence of dynamic loading on crack initiation parameters. Dynamic interfacial crack tip fields are recorded using high speed photography and fracture parameters for dynamically loaded stationary cracks are obtained. Measurements suggest significant crack initiation toughness reduction under dynamic loading conditions.