Schematic models for fragmentation of brittle solids in one and two dimensions

Abstract

Stochastic models for the development of cracks in 1 and 2 dimensional objects are presented. In one dimension, we focus on particular scenarios for interacting and non-interacting fragments during the breakup process. For two dimensional objects, we consider only non-interacting fragments, but analyze isotropic and anisotropic development of fissures. Analytical results are given for many observables. Power-law size distributions are predicted for some of the fragmentation pictures considered.