The project proposes that the phase I effort concentrate on determining impact differences between the charpy and the izod specimen while examining the chemistry, microstructure and properties of these steel. We also intend to extend this to include finite element analysis of the specimens. The precise material to be tested will be determined from the project manager. The finite element structural analysis is an analytical method where the state of stress can be determined within a structure by dividing the structure into small elements and examining the minimum energy when the structure is stressed. Chemistry, characteristics of the fracture surface, microstructure and mechanical properties are also to be determined. In phase II it is recommended that pre-cracked specimens be examined.
