Fracture patterns of quartz particles in glass feldspar matrix

We report a comparison between experimental evidences and simulation results of the micro cracking in ceramic materials provoked by the cooling process. The solid model and the fracture process are carried out using the Material Point Method. This model, where cracks may initiate and propagate, consists of a quartz particle embedded in a glassy phase. We focus our interest on the key role of the particle morphology on the micro fracture patterns.

► We model fracture of quartz particle in ceramic material by fast cooling.
► Shape of inclusions defines fracture pattern.
► Rounded shapes generate hoop cracks in matrix-quartz interface.
► Elongated shapes generate multiple transversal inner cracks perpendicular to the largest dimension.
► Irregular particles fail in sharp regions like corners.