Fracture Features in Polymers

Fracture features in polymers have similarities, but also key differences from those in metals. Furthermore, several failure mechanisms for polymers result in very similar fracture surface appearances. This presentation will review the important fracture mechanisms and fracture features (macroscale and microscale) in polymers. Emphasis will be placed on distinguishing the fracture features found in monotonic overload (one steadily increasing load application), fatigue, slow crack growth (or stress rupture), and environmental stress cracking (ESC). Some comparisons will be made between fracture features observed in polymers and in metals. Numerous fracture surface images and fractographs will be presented to reinforce critical points.