Analysis of Hertzian indentation fracture in the framework of finite fracture mechanics

The concept of finite fracture mechanics which assumes the spontaneous formation of a small, yet finite, crack and employs as stress-based as well as an energetic criterion is applied to the problem of indentation fracture initiation in brittle solids. In evaluating the energetic part of the fracture criterion a semi-analytical and a numerical approach, the latter involving detailed finite element simulations, are compared. The functionality of the hybrid (two-part) criterion in application to indentation fracture is analyzed in principle and, moreover, its predictive capabilities are illustrated by comparison with experimental findings.