On the strength and toughness of structural ceramics bonded to metals

The structural integrity of ceramic/metal joints is primarily determined by the strength and toughness of the interface formed between the ceramic and metal components. A combination of theoretical and experimental studies of the mechanics and mechanisms of crack growth at or near such interfaces in sandwich geometries demonstrates a strong dependence of strength and toughness on the propagation path selected by stress-induced cracks. As a result, there is potential for predicting, and engineering, stronger and tougher ceramic/metal interfaces.