Molecular dynamics based cohesive zone law for describing Al-SiC interface mechanics

Molecular dynamics simulations are carried out to parameterize and obtain a traction-separation law for a ductile-brittle interface in tensile and shear loadings at high temperatures. Traditionally the interface is characterized by a cohesive zone model (CZM) with the traction-separation law assumed or parameterized through experiments. The experimental determination of the shape of the CZM has proved to be difficult. In this study a traction-separation law is thus obtained for an aluminum-silicon carbide composite system by conducting molecular dynamics simulations. The generated parameterized traction-separation law is then input into a finite element model to predict the stress-strain response of the metal matrix composite under high strain rate loading and compared with experimental results.