Elements of fractography

This chapter begins with a description of the different classifications of fracture, according to mechanism and extent of plastic deformation. The mechanical aspects of fracture, from the continuum mechanics and fracture mechanics points of view, are briefly described. Based on the mechanical aspects of fracture, a General Fracture Model is introduced in order to facilitate the systematic study of fractures. The main features observed in the macroscopic examination of fractures are described, along with the formation mechanisms used to identify and analyze the fracture sequence, initiation sites and relations to mechanical properties. The chapter finishes with a proposed procedure for the examination of fractures at the microscopic level and a description of the main micromechanisms of fracture.