Computational and analytical prediction of the elastic modulus and yield stress in particulate-reinforced metal matrix composites

In this work, three-dimensional finite-element analysis (FEA) simulations based on the representative volume element approach have been performed to determine the elastic modulus and yield stress of spherical particle-reinforced metal matrix composites. These simulations take into consideration of the degree of bonding between the matrix and the reinforcement. An analytical model has been developed using the FEA computations, and the results agree well with experimental findings reported in the literature for strongly bonded Al-2080/SiC and poorly bonded Al-2024/Al2O3 materials.