On Linear Elastic Fragmentation Mechanics Under Hydrostatic Compression

In this letter we apply the Griffith’s energy balance of Linear Elastic Fracture Mechanics to predict the hydrostatic compressive strength of granular matter, as a first step towards a Linear Elastic Fragmentation Mechanics. The result is a simple law for the critical pressure, in strict analogy to the Griffith’s strength prediction, found to be mainly a function of the surface to volume ratio of particles. The influence of compaction and fragmentation evolution on the compressive strength is also quantified. Thus, this letter presents one possible approach to fragmentation mechanics. Letter to be published in INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF FRACTURE