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Edge Chipping Resistance Using Macroindentation
The resistance of the edges of brittle materials to chipping or flaking from concentrated loads is a critical property for dental restoration ceramics, resin composites, edge-mounted optical devices, ceramic tool bits, thin semiconductor chips, and many other materials. The edge chipping resistance test provides a method to quantify and measure the fracture resistance, toughness, and edge chip strength of these materials. This method uses a conical indenter to chip the rectangular edge of a brittle sample at set distances from the edge. Archeological evidence has revealed that this method is similar to the way early humans selected stones to make tools and weapons. Hundreds of thousands of years later, edge chipping tests remain a critical tool for applications where edge toughness is concerned.