Closed form constitutive equations for metal matrix composites (Q1821574)

Explicit constitutive equations are given for the prediction of the overall behavior of unidirectional fiber-reinforced composites whose constituents are elastoplastic materials. The closed form expressions in these constitutive relations solely involve the elastic and inelastic properties of the phases as well as the fibers volume ratio. In the elastic region the average stress-strain relations are expressed in terms of the effective elastic moduli of the composite, all of which are given by closed form expressions. The derived constitutive relations can be readily implemented for the analysis of metal matrix composites and inelastic composite structures.