Multiscale Modeling of Strengthening Mechanism in Aluminum-Based Amorphous Nanocomposites

Abstract

AbstractIn this work we focus upon theoretical exploration of the mechanical constitutive behavior of amorphous nanocomposites in terms of a multi-scale approach starting from the nanostructure. Local heterogeneous stress field and deformation are calculated based on the concept of eigenstrain and equivalent inclusion method. The overall elastoplastic constitutive model for amorphous nanocomposites is developed through homogenization averaging procedures. Explicit expressions of the effective elastic stiffness and yield strength of amorphous nanocomposites in terms of the constituents' properties and nanostructures are obtained. An interlayer phase between nanoparticles and the amorphous matrix is experimentally observed and incorporated in the proposed model. The interlayer thickness is treated as a characteristic length scale. Thus, the particle size effect on the nanocomposite properties is particularly investigated within continuum nanomechanics framework. It provides direct determination of the intrinsic mechanisms of the nanocomposite structure-property relationship at the nanoscale.