In this paper, an integrated numerical model is proposed to investigate the effects of particulate size and volume fraction on the deformation, damage, and failure behaviors of particulate-reinforced metal matrix composites (PRMMCs). In the framework of a random microstructure-based finite element modelling, the plastic deformation and ductile cracking of the matrix are, respectively, modelled using Johnson–Cook constitutive relation and Johnson–Cook ductile fracture model. The matrix-particle interface decohesion is simulated by employing the surface-based-cohesive zone method, while the particulate fracture is manipulated by the elastic–brittle cracking model, in which the damage evolution criterion depends on the fracture energy cracking criterion. A 2D nonlinear finite element model was developed using ABAQUS/Explicit commercial program for modelling and analyzing damage mechanisms of silicon carbide reinforced aluminum matrix composites. The predicted results have shown a good agreement with the experimental data in the forms of true stress–strain curves and failure shape. Unlike the existing models, the influence of the volume fraction and size of SiC particles on the deformation, damage mechanism, failure consequences, and stress–strain curve of A359/SiC particulate composites is investigated accounting for the different possible modes of failure simultaneously.
Functionally graded materials made of more than two material constituents have been recently introduced in order to control stiffness and contact response. In the present study, effects of bidirectional gradation of the mechanical properties of functionally graded materials, made of more than two distinct material constituents, upon the indentation response are investigated. Utilizing isoparametric graded finite elements formulation to realize the gradation of material properties, the problem is handled in the framework of the mechanics of functional graded materials coupled with contact mechanics to investigate the nonlinearity inherent with indentation problems. The obtained results showed that the bidirectional gradation of the material properties and the indenter radius have significant effects on the indentation response of bidirectional functionally graded materials. Also, it is indicated that the indentation configuration can be effectively controlled by imposing a bidirectional gradation in an elastic material.
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