Molecular dynamics study on the failure modes of aluminium under decaying shock loading

We have investigated the failure modes of single crystal aluminium under decaying shock loading by using molecular dynamics simulations. The microstructure evolution during the failure is presented in terms of the central symmetry parameter, and the corresponding pressure and temperature profiles are calculated and discussed. These results explain the failure morphology and mechanical properties under dynamic tension and especially the difference between solid and melted states. In addition, the fracture strength of aluminium is analyzed from surface velocity within acoustic approximation and virial theorem.