Loud cracking dinner plate 15 min after dropping

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In summary, a ceramic/porcelain dinner plate was dropped on a tiled floor and did not break. However, after being set aside for 15 minutes, it suddenly split along a single straight line, causing 1/3 of the plate to break off. This could be explained by the plate obtaining micro-fissures and a tensed structure from the initial impact, which then grew and destabilized the structure. This process is similar to scratching a tempered glass and causing a catastrophic failure.
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humanoid1000037
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Hi all

Random question: yesterday an empty ceramic / porcelain dinner plate was accidentally dropped on a tiled floor from the dinner table. Amazingly, it did not break. It was picked up and set aside on the kitchen counter, where it remained untouched. After about 15 minutes, there was a loud cracking sound, and it split along a single straight line, causing about 1/3 of the plate to be broken off. I really struggle to come up with an explanation for this, given that there was no heating / cooling taking place, or other external forces being exerted...

Any thoughts would be interesting.
 
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Hi humanoid,

It seems as though the plate has obtained some micro-fissures and a tensed structure by the impact, it is hard to say as no knowledge on manufacturing can be obtained (no need for interpretation).
These fissures can in time go from from micro to macro without any need of force acting externally, like scratching a tempered glass and the catastrophic failure thereafter, just that in this case a small fissure (caused by a tension) grew (slow process) until the structure was destabilized (extremely fast fissure growth).
 
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Lok said:
Hi humanoid,

It seems as though the plate has obtained some micro-fissures and a tensed structure by the impact, it is hard to say as no knowledge on manufacturing can be obtained (no need for interpretation).
These fissures can in time go from from micro to macro without any need of force acting externally, like scratching a tempered glass and the catastrophic failure thereafter, just that in this case a small fissure (caused by a tension) grew (slow process) until the structure was destabilized (extremely fast fissure growth).

Thanks Lok... that explanation makes sense to me!

Regards...
 

FAQ: Loud cracking dinner plate 15 min after dropping

1. Why did my dinner plate make a loud cracking sound 15 minutes after I dropped it?

The loud cracking sound is likely due to the plate experiencing a delayed fracture. When the plate was initially dropped, it may have sustained a small crack or damage that was not immediately visible. Over time, the stress from being dropped and the weight of the food on the plate can cause the crack to grow and eventually lead to a loud cracking sound.

2. Is it safe to use a dinner plate that has made a loud cracking sound?

It is not recommended to continue using a dinner plate that has made a loud cracking sound. This indicates that the plate may have sustained structural damage and could potentially break or shatter during use, posing a safety hazard.

3. Can a dinner plate make a loud cracking sound without being dropped?

Yes, a dinner plate can make a loud cracking sound without being dropped. This can happen if the plate is exposed to extreme temperature changes or if it is bumped or hit with a significant amount of force.

4. How can I prevent my dinner plates from making a loud cracking sound?

To prevent your dinner plates from making a loud cracking sound, handle them with care and avoid exposing them to sudden temperature changes or impacts. It is also important to inspect your plates regularly for any cracks or damage and replace them if necessary.

5. Can loud cracking sounds in dinner plates be a sign of a larger issue?

In some cases, loud cracking sounds in dinner plates can be a sign of a larger issue. It could indicate that the plates are made from low-quality materials or that they were not properly manufactured. If you consistently experience loud cracking sounds in your dinner plates, it may be worth investing in higher quality plates.

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