Meso-structure-Based Numerical Simulations of Deformation and Damage of TiAIC/Al Composites by 3D Cylinder Model under Axial Compression

In this paper, a combination of experimental techniques and numerical simulations were used to investigate the mechanical behavior of the TiAlC-MAX phase-reinforced aluminum metal matrix composites prepared by hot press sintering and the high purity TiAlC-MAX phase was synthesized through pressureless sintering, followed by an in-depth microstructure and mechanical properties analysis. This was carried out using various techniques, including metallographic microscopy, scanning electron microscopy, XRD, microhardness testing, universal mechanical testing and finite element analysis. In order to model the compressive deformation behavior of the MAX-TiAlC/Al composite, a meso-structure-based finite element model of 3D cylindrical representative volume element was implemented. The comprehensive results of the finite element simulation are in agreement with the experimental data. It was proved that the constructed 3D cylindrical model and the composed constitutive equation can accurately predict the deformation and damage behavior of TiAlC/Al under axial compression. This analysis showed that the TiAlC particles were uniformly distributed within the Al matrix, forming a hard and continuous framework and enhancing the compressive strength and microhardness of the processed composite. In addition, this research examined the impact of different volume fractions and sizes of TiAlC-MAX phase particles on the properties of composites. The composite with 20% volume fraction of reinforcement exhibited the highest yield strength and microhardness of 292.31 MPa and 155 HV, respectively. However, above 20% reinforcement phase, a weakening of the bond strength at the composite matrix interface, an increase in voids and defects and a consequent reduction in the mechanical properties of the processed composite were observed. Graphical Abstract: (Figure presented.)