Physics – Condensed Matter – Materials Science
Scientific paper
2007-04-19
Physics
Condensed Matter
Materials Science
Accepted in JNCS. In press
Scientific paper
10.1016/j.jnoncrysol.2007.06.090
Water molecules play a fundamental role in the physics of slow crack propagation in glasses. It is commonly understood that, during stress-corrosion, water molecules that move in the crack cavity effectively reduce the bond strength at the strained crack tip and, thus, support crack propagation. Yet the details of the environmental condition at the crack tip in moist air are not well determined. In a previous work, we reported direct evidence of the presence of a 100 nm long liquid condensate at the crack tip in fused silica glass during very slow crack propagation (10^-9 to 10^-10 m/s). These observations are based on in-situ AFM phase imaging techniques applied on DCDC glass specimens in controlled atmosphere. Here, we discuss the physical origin of the AFM phase contrast between the liquid condensate and the glass surface in relation to tip-sample adhesion induced by capillary bridges. We then report new experimental data on the water condensation length increase with relative humidity in the atmosphere. The measured condensation lengths were much larger than what predicted using the Kelvin equation and expected geometry of the crack tip.
Ciccotti Matteo
George Machabeli
Marliere C.
Ranieri V.
Wondraczek L.
No associations
LandOfFree
Dynamic condensation of water at crack tips in fused silica glass does not yet have a rating. At this time, there are no reviews or comments for this scientific paper.
If you have personal experience with Dynamic condensation of water at crack tips in fused silica glass, we encourage you to share that experience with our LandOfFree.com community. Your opinion is very important and Dynamic condensation of water at crack tips in fused silica glass will most certainly appreciate the feedback.
Profile ID: LFWR-SCP-O-213156