Effect of particle distribution on deformation and damage of two-phase alloys

The effect of an inhomogeneous distribution of second phase particles on strength and damage has been studied here using a model system based on rapidly solidified Al–Cu alloys which result in Al–CuAl2 composites, Materials with both a homogeneous and bimodal distribution of the CuAl2 particles have been produced. When tested in compression (i.e. little or no damage) the clustered materials are significantly stronger than homogeneous alloys containing the same overall CuAl2 volume fraction. These results are consistent with a previously published self-consistent model.