Analysis of notched metal matrix composites under tensile loading

This paper presents techniques based on a three-dimensional finite-element analysis for the analysis of continuous fiber reinforced metal matrix composite. Examples are shown for specific metal matrix composites such as boron/aluminum and silicon-carbide/aluminum. Specimen stress-strain behavior and stress at first fiber failure were predicted for boron/aluminum laminates containing circular holes and crack-like slits. The predictions compared very well with test data for laminates containing 0 deg fibers and reasonably well for (+/-45)2s laminates. Mesh configuration was shown to have an effect on the calculation of stresses local to the notch. The presence of thin interface layers of matrix material had a significant influence on the slit tip stress state, causing sharper stress gradients near the notch. Interface layers reduced the slit-tip fibers stress in a (+/-45)2s silicon-carbide/aluminum laminate but increased them in a (0/90)2s laminate.