This paper shows the results of an experimental investigation on fracture in polymethyl methacrylate (PMMA) notched specimens subjected to compression (with unloading) including different strain rates. Three types of notches were used. Flat specimens were weakened by two types of V-notches and U-notches. Additionally, two specimen thicknesses were used (9.7 and 14.5 mm). The load was carried out at the strain rate of 8 × 10-4, 4 × 10-3, and 2 × 10-2 s-1 and the unloading stage was conducted ten times faster, i.e., 8 × 10-3, 4 × 10-2, and 2 × 10-1 s-1, respectively. By using a PHANTOM high-speed camera, fracture initiation moments and locations were indicated. Two types of crack were observed and distinguished as A-type and B-type. The first was formed by the contact stress of the closing notch surfaces, while the latter was formed by the residual stresses during the unloading stage. The type of notch, specimen thickness, and the strain rate have a significant influence on the fracture process. The strain rate has a large impact on the critical load value, which determines the fracture initiation, but does not affect the location and shape of the crack. The strain rate effect usually disappears with increasing specimen thickness.
Keywords: fracture; notches; polymeric material; strain rate effect; viscoelastic material.