Phase-stress partition and residual stress in metal matrix composites

Finite element (FE) modeling based on axisymmetrical cells was performed fo r relating the phase-stress partition and residual phase stress in metal ma trix composites (MMCs) to the reinforcement volume fraction and shape, matr ix hardening behavior and applied strain levels. The phase stress is define d as mean effective stresses in the constituent phases. The elastic, plasti c phase-stress partition behavior during loading, and the resultant residua l stress in matrix followed unloading are delineated. A set of formulas is given for predicting the value of the phase stress in each phase, and resid ual stress in matrix from the inclusion volume fraction and aspect ratio, a s well as matrix hardening exponent and applied strain level. (C) 2000 Else vier Science B.V. All rights reserved.