Damage model for metal-matrix composite under high intensity loading

A damage model for a composite structure under high intensity dynamic loading is presented. The model is based on a thermodynamic micromechanic approach, which is formulated using the conservation laws and the energy balance equations (the first and second laws of thermodynamics). A homogenization or averaging technique is implemented in the development to simplify the representation of the non-homogeneous material. The metal-matrix composite's inelastic response is modeled using elastic-plastic constitutive relations considering finite plastic strain and damage effect. The damage model is validated with experimental data available in the literatures, and it shows fairly good agreement. A parametric study demonstrating the characteristics of the damage model is also presented. (C) 2002 Elsevier Science Ltd. All rights reserved.