A numerical model for calculation of stress intensity factors in particle-reinforced metal–matrix composites

A two-dimensional finite element model was developed to study effects of particle diameter, mechanical properties of the fiber and matrix materials and loading conditions (Mode 1 and Mixed-Mode). A theoretical model was proposed to calculate the stress intensity factor for an interface crack in Particle-Reinforced Metal–Matrix Composites. The displacement Correlation Method was used to calculate the stress intensity factors K ₁ and K ₂. In the present model the fiber and matrix materials were modeled in linear elastic conditions. The interface crack was considered between the fiber and matrix, without the presence of the interphase. Obtained results show that the key role on the stress intensity factors played by the relative elastic properties of the fiber and matrix. The results also show that K ₁ and absolute K ₂ values increase for both Mode 1 and mixed-mode loading condition once Young’s modulus of the fiber material increases. The values of K ₁ and K ₂ stress intensity factors decrease when the fiber volume fraction increases for Mode 1 loading.