A multiscale mean field model for elastic properties of hypereutectoid pearlitic steels with different microstructures

Multiscale modeling of macroscopic elastic properties of pearlitic hypereutectoid steel using the Eshelby matrix-inclusion approach is possible. The model works through successive homogenization steps, based on the elastic properties of cementite and ferrite. Globular pearlite is homogenized using a Mori-Tanaka approach. Lamellar pearlite and pearlite colonies with fragmented proeutectoid cementite are homogenized by a classical self-consistent scheme. In the case of pearlite colonies surrounded by a continuous cementite film, a generalized self-consistent scheme is used. The influence of microstructural parameters such as the pearlite colony size or the thickness of the proeutectoid cementite on Young's and shear moduli and on coefficients of the stiffness tensor is simulated. Proof of concept is obtained by comparison between predicted elastic behavior and experimental results from the literature.