Multi-scale modeling to predict sub-surface damage applied to laser-assisted machining of a particulate reinforced metal matrix composite

A multi-scale finite element model (FEM) is developed to predict the post machined sub-surface damage in a particle reinforced metal matrix composite (MMC) subjected to laser-assisted machining (LAM). The MMC studied is an A359 aluminum matrix composite reinforced with 20% by volume fraction silicon carbide particles. In this model, molecular dynamics (MD) simulations are carried out to parameterize traction–separation laws for the aluminum–silicon carbide interface. The parameterized traction–separation laws are then input into a finite element model, in the form of a cohesive zone model to subsequently simulate the sub-surface damage. In this manner, the multi-scale hierarchical model successfully bridges the atomic, micro and macro scales. Average values of the predicted quantities are compared with experimental results, and the favorable agreement confirms the validity of the multi-scale FEM.