Sir Alan Cottrell and the dislocation mechanics of fracturing

Abstract

Sir Alan Cottrell led the transformation of metallurgy from an observational science to analytical description. The following ditty, written for an analysis of the influence of polycrystal grain size on mechanical strength properties, could very well have been inspired by subliminal guidance from Cottrell:The physically-weaker mortals are supported With stronger materials, needfully, more so every day. How so, you say -by brain power exhorted To restrict the role that cracks and dislocations play!The following account is an honoring contribution in recognition of the great man's leading researches on one of several materials-based topics that he led: the dislocation mechanics of fracturing.