3D Microstructure-based finite element modeling of deformation and fracture of SiCp/Al composites. (8th February 2016)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Zhang, Jie; Ouyang, Qiubao; Guo, Qiang; Li, Zhiqiang; Fan, Genlian; Su, Yishi; Jiang, Lin; Lavernia, Enrique J.; Schoenung, Julie M.; Zhang, Di
• Is Part Of: Composites science and technology. Volume 123(2016)
• Page Start: 1
• Page End: 9
• Publication Date: 2016-02-08
• Subjects: Metal-matrix composites (MMCs) -- Damage mechanics -- Finite element analysis (FEA) -- Interfacial strength; Composite materials -- Periodicals; Composite materials; Fibrous composites; Periodicals; 620.118
• DOI: 10.1016/j.compscitech.2015.11.014
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 0266-3538

Abstract

Abstract: The mechanical behavior, with particular emphasis on the damage mechanisms, of SiCp/Al composites was studied by both experiments and finite element analysis in this paper. A 3D microstructure-based finite element model was developed to predict the elasto-plastic response and fracture behavior of a 7vol.% SiCp/Al composite. The 3D microstructure of SiCp/Al composite was reconstructed by implementing a Camisizer XT particle size analysis device and a random sequential adsorption algorithm. The constitutive behavior of the elastoplastic-damage in the metal matrix, the elastic-brittle failure for the particle reinforcement, and the traction-separation for interfaces, were independently simulated in this model. The validity of the modeling results were validated by the agreement of the experimental stress-strain curve and the morphology of fracture section with those predicted by the simulation. The visual elasto-plastic deformation process, along with crack generation and propagation was well simulated in this model. The numerical results were used to provide insight into the damage mechanisms of SiCp/Al composites, and the effects of interfacial strength and particle strength on material properties were also discussed in detail.