Modelling the conditions for fatigue failure in metal matrix composites

An investigation on the fatigue crack growth (FCG) and fatigue failure in metal matrix composites (MMCs) has been conducted using a model based on micromechanical elasto-plastic fracture mechanics (EPFM) principles. To evaluate the model comparisons between experimental and predicted fatigue life have been made for two silicon carbide strengthened (SCS)-6/Ti-based MMCs. Conditions for crack arrest and crack instability have also been considered in order to define the fatigue damage limits. Crack arrest occurs from the added effects of fibre bridging and the constraint provided by the fibre on matrix microplasticity, while crack instability is achieved when the fibre constraint effect is minimum and the fatigue resistance of the material is reduced due to the accumulation of fatigue damage. Comparisons of the predicted fatigue damage limits with experimental results show good agreement which underlines the usefulness of a microstructural fracture mechanics model.