Failures analysis of particle reinforced metal matrix composites by microstructure based models

This paper discusses the methodology of microstructure based elastic-plastic finite element analysis of particle reinforced metal matrix composites. This model is used to predict the failure of two dimensional microstructure models under tensile loading conditions. A literature survey indicates that the major failure mechanism of particle reinforced metal matrix composites such as particle fracture, interfaces decohesion and matrix yielding is mainly dominated by the distribution of particles in the matrix. Hence, analyses were carried out on the microstructure of random and clustered particles to determine its effect on strength and failure mechanisms. The finite element analysis models were generated in ANSYS, using scanning electron microscope images. The percentage of major failures and stress-strain responses were predicted numerically for each microstructure. It is evident from the analysis that the clustering nature of particles in the matrix dominates the failure modes of particle reinforced metal matrix composites.