Mixed mode fracture of marble/adhesive interfaces

This paper presents the results of a combined experimental and theoretical study of the fracture of marble/adhesive interfaces that are relevant to the historic preservation and the conservation of marble artifacts. Thermoplastic and thermosetting adhesives are considered in this study as well as combinations of the two applied in sequence. The mode mixity dependence of interfacial fracture toughness is measured using Brazil-nut specimens. This dependence is also explained using a crack-shielding model that accounts for the crack profiles and the contact between mating asperities.