Publications

An atomic-scale evaluation of the fracture toughness of silica glass

Jones, Reese E.; Rimsza, Jessica R.; Criscenti, Louise C.

Using an atomistic technique consistent with continuum balance laws and drawing on classical fracture mechanics theory, we estimate the resistance to fracture propagation of amorphous silica. We discuss correspondence and deviations from classical linear elastic fracture mechanics theory including size dependence, rigid/floppy modes of deformation, and the effects of surface energy and stress.