Multiscale analysis of the low-velocity impact behavior of ceramic nanoparticle-reinforced metal matrix nanocomposite beams by micromechanics and finite element approaches

Abstract

An efficient multiscale analysis is proposed to investigate the dynamic behavior of metal matrix nanocomposite beams reinforced by SiC nanoparticles under low-velocity impact loads. First, an analytical micromechanics model is developed to obtain the effective elastic properties of ceramic nanoparticle-reinforced metal matrix nanocomposite, and then the finite element method is used to predict the dynamic response of beams made of this nanocomposite material. Two important microstructural features, including size effect and agglomeration of nanoscale particles, are incorporated into the micromechanical analysis. The present simulation results for the elastic modulus and low-velocity impact response show good agreement with previously published results. The effects of volume percent, diameter and dispersion type of ceramic nanoparticles, geometrical features and boundary conditions of nanostructure, velocity and size of projectile on the contact force, and center deflection time histories of metal matrix nanocomposite beams are extensively examined. Analysis shows that homogenously distributed SiC nanoparticles into the metal matrix nanocomposites can obviously increase the nanostructure/projectile contact force and decrease both the beam center deflection and impact duration which is due to the enhancement of elastic properties. However, the ceramic nanoparticle agglomeration has an effect on the decrease of contact force and the increase of both the center deflection and impact duration. Also, it is concluded that decreasing nanoparticle size can increase the contact force and decrease the beam center deflection.