Analysis of elastoplastic deformation in metal-matrix composites with particulate reinforcements

In this paper, elastoplastic stress-strain behavior during tensile deformation of an aluminum alloy matrix composite containing alumina circular and non-circular particles is analyzed. In terms of cell models in conjunction with continuum plasticity theory, various periodic arrays of particles are assumed in a three-dimensional finite element simulation. The geometrical effects of particle volume fraction, shape, aspect ratio, array and distribution, as well as non-circular particle orientation on the overall elastoplastic stress-strain behavior are examined in view to design optimum microstructures of the composites.