Potential application of electron work function in analyzing fracture toughness of materials

Fracture toughness determines materials' resistance to fracture, which is measured often using impact or bending tests. However, it is difficult to evaluate fracture toughness of coatings and small samples. In this article, using white irons as sample materials, we explore a possible approach of using electron work function (EWF) as an indicator in evaluating fracture toughness of hard metallic materials. This parameter is promising for being utilized to analyze toughness of protective coatings and small objects as well as bulk materials. Through comparison with results obtained from impact tests and elastic modulus measurement, effectiveness of this EWF approach is demonstrated. (C) 2017 Published by Elsevier Ltd on behalf of The editorial office of Journal of Materials Science & Technology.