Effect of particle characteristics on deformation of particle reinforced metal matrix composites

The particle characteristics of 15% SiC particles reinforced metal matrix composites (MMC) made by powder metallurgy route were studied by using a statistical method. In the analysis, the approach for estimation of the characteristics of particles was presented. The study was carried out by using the mathematic software MATLAB to calculate the area and perimeter of each particle, in which the image processing technique was employed. Based on the calculations, the sizes and shape factors of each particle were investigated respectively. Additionally, the finite element model (FEM) was established on the basis of the actual microstructure. The contour plots of von Mises effective stress and strain in matrix and particles were presented in calculations for considering the influence of microstructure on the deformation behavior of MMC. Moreover, the contour maps of the maximum stress of particles and the maximum plastic strain of matrix in the vicinity of particles were introduced respectively.