Test methods and data on the mechanical properties of protective oxide scales

The present paper describes the key mechanical properties of oxide scales w ith regard to model equations and investigation methods. Modified test meth ods are introduced for the determination of values describing scale failure , growth stresses in oxides and creep of the scales. Furthermore, a summary of scale fracture data from the literature is given. As a conclusion it is discussed that failure strains of oxide scales can be estimated from the m odel equations and using basic mechanical property data like fracture tough ness and geometrical scale parameters as physical defect size, interface ro ughness, scale thickness etc. without complicated mechanical tests. In the end a universal mechanical properties diagram is introduced, which describe s fracture and creep behavior of the oxide scales.