In this paper the quasi-static fracture behavior of aluminum alloy 5083, wh
ich finds wide use as connection elements such as plates, is examined. The
kinetics governing the fracture behavior of the alloy is rationalized and d
iscussed in light of the mutually interactive and competitive influences of
intrinsic microstructural effects, deformation characteristics and of the
matrix and concomitant plasticity at the 'localized' level, and stress stat
e. (C) 1999 Elsevier Science B.V. All rights reserved.