A comparison between two analytical models that approximate notch-root elastic–plastic strain–stress components in two-phase, particle-reinforced, metal matrix composites under multiaxial cyclic loading: Theory

In this paper, two analytical models for estimating surface notch-root elastic–plastic, strain–stress histories in particulate metal matrix composites (PMMCs) when subjected to multiaxial cyclic loads are presented and compared. The models are based on the concept of incremental average stress, the endochronic theory of plasticity, and modified forms of the incremental equivalent strain energy density method (ESED) and Neuber's rule. Each model provides a complete set of equations capable of predicting the elastic–plastic strain–stress histories at the notch root given a corresponding elastic solution. The preliminary analytical results obtained by applying the formulations to a circumferentially notched round bar show that each model can independently be used to predict the nonlinear heterogeneous behavior at the notch root in PMMC components.