Effects of interfacial debonding on the rate-dependent response of metal matrix composites

The effect of interface damage on the rate-dependent constitutive behavior of particle reinforced metal matrix composites (MMCs) is investigated. The constitutive behavior of the matrix–reinforcement interface is characterized by a cohesive zone model, and the effects of interface strength and separation energy on MMC constitutive behavior are examined over a wide strain rate range (10−3–104 s−1). The consequences of interface failure on the overall constitutive behavior of the composite are discussed in conjunction with the influences of reinforcement volume fraction, strain rate, particle shape and aspect ratio. The computational results are compared with experimental data obtained on the quasistatic and high-rate response of MMCs subjected to compression and tension, with good correlation.