Criteria for impulsive rock fracture

Explosive or percussive breakage of rock relies on impulsive rock fracture and both the fracture stress and fracture energy under such conditions are observed to be significantly greater than measured quasi-statically. The implication of rate dependence has been verified in recent tensile fracture studies and in the present report this data has been compiled, significant trends noted, and comparisons made with earlier impulsive fracture criteria.