Fractography Analysis of Monolithic Epoxy with Tailored Topography

The topographical features of fractured tensile, flexural, K1C, and impact specimens of monolithic epoxy have been studied and correlated with mechanical properties and surface features of samples before fracture. The topographical features studied include waviness (Wa), roughness average (Ra), root mean square value (Rq), and maximum roughness height (Rmax or Rz). As surface notches generate triaxial state of stress, therefore, the crack propagation is precipitated resulting in catastrophic failure. Although surfaces can be examined before fracture for any deleterious topographical elements, however, fractured surfaces can reveal finer details about the topography. It is because, as discussed in this article, surfaces with specific topography produce fracture patterns of peculiar aesthetics, and if delved deeper, they can further be used to estimate about the topography of surfaces before fracture. In addition, treating the samples with surfaces of specific topography can help improve the mechanical properties of monolithic epoxy.