The Relation of Continuum Mechanics to Adhesive Fracture

From the standpoint of continuum mechanics, there is an essential similarity between cohesive and adhesive failure. Continuum mechanics can, therefore, be used to analyze adhesive fracture including certain cases of interfacial debonding, by applying an extension of the Griffith energy balance concept. Present researches permit a consideration of the influence of material behavior such as viscoelasticity and geometric parameters such as interlayer bond thickness. These advances and quantitative predictions of failure are reviewed with special reference to the characteristic adhesive fracture energy, new or applicable test methods, and its connection with the association between macro- and micro-constitution of the media. Various testing methods for determination of the adhesive fracture energy are discussed. A pressurized bubble or blister at the interface is shown to have certain advantages. Experimental results from various materials using this test will be presented as confirmation of the model.