Double edge thermal crack problem for an interpenetrating phase composite: Application of a matricity-based thermal conductivity model

In this paper a matricity-based thermal conductivity model for interpenetrating phase composites (IPCs) is first developed. The model employs the formulas of effective thermal conductivities for particulate composites together with the so-called matricities of the constituent phases. The model is then applied to investigate a double edge cracked plate of a ceramic/metal IPC under a thermal shock. The numerical results for an Al2O3/aluminum IPC show that both the peak tensile thermal stress and the peak thermal stress intensity factor (TSIF) are significantly lower than those for the corresponding aluminum particulate Al2O3-matrix composite.