Abstract
The propagation of a macro-scale crack and the accompanying transformation zone around it was visualized in an Y-TZP ceramic using a mechano-luminescence (ML) technique. The technique allows realistic fractures that take place catastrophically in actual applications to be realistically stimulated. Unlike conventional quasi-static R-curves, the ML technique on a relatively fast time frame permitted a so-called quasi-dynamic R-curve in the crack speed range from 50 to 140 m/sec. to be measured. Effective toughening then commenced and the applied stress intensity factor increased to 27 $MPa{\sqrt{m}}$. The transformation zone height obtained from the ML observations was in good agreement with that predicted by the Marshall model, and coincided with previously observed results for quasi-static conditions by Raman spectorscopy and x-ray analysis.