FEM modelling of the combined effect of grain boundaries and second phase particles on the flow stress of nanocrystalline metals

► Combined effects of grain boundary and particles strengthening in nano-crystalline metals were modelled by FEM simulations. ► Nanoparticles located at the grain boundaries may contribute to the strengthening process. ► The effect of the particles strongly depends on the relative contribution of grain boundary sliding. ► Particles located at the middle points of grain boundary have a greater strengthening effect than those at triple points.