Young’s modulus estimation based on high symmetry 3-D finite element model for metal matrix composites

The Young’s moduli of Al356/SiC (particle) Metal Matrix Composite (MMC) with different particle aspect ratios were estimated by Finite Elements Analysis (FEA), using a simple 3-D model. The results were compared to a 2-D axisymmetric FEA model, to the experimental results, and the predicted values obtained from the Rule of Mixtures and the Halpin–Tsai (HT) model. FEA software ANSYS 11.0 was used. The 3-D model consisted on taking the one-eight part of a unit cell, with particles having cylindrical shape, a volume fraction of 0.12 and aspect ratio from 0.2 to 1.8. The estimated Young’s moduli presented significant differences, mainly at aspect ratios higher than 1.0, resulting the 3-D model estimations closer to the experimental values. The results from the selected 3-D model were found to have higher accuracy when compared to traditional axisymmetric 2-D model. Besides, the efficiency of this high symmetry 3-D model showed that a more complex 3-D model is not necessary.