Computational modeling of tension behaviors of metal matrix composites with particle network architecture

Rigid powders as the second phase in the conventional metal matrix composites (MMCs) are usually uniform and random, but recently powders dispersed with some special architectures to form configuration composites would yield a remarkable enhancement in the stiffness, strength and toughness as well. In this work, FE investigation was performed on tension behaviors of MMCs with network architectures to understand their dependences on particle volume fraction, particle size, network thickness and morphology. With the aid of the Gurson’s porous metal plasticity theory, the void nucleation rate acted as an internal state variable to monitor the development of micro-cracks in the metal matrix. The impedance effect of particle network architectures on the propagation of micro-cracks was interpreted in stark contrast to that in uniform MMCs, whereby their particular strengthening and toughening mechanisms were clarified. The present study would be helpful to the guidance in designing advanced MMCs with superior comprehensive properties.