Numerical Study on the Failure Behavior of Metal Matrix Composites Based on a Coupled Phase Field-Cohesive Zone Model

Abstract

Abstract

This paper employs a coupled ductile phase field fracture model (PFM) and cohesive zone model (CZM) to numerically investigate the failure behavior of a representative volume element (RVE) of a Ti-6Al-4V metal matrix composite containing SiC particles. By systematically analyzing the influence of factors such as mesh size, interfacial fracture parameters, particle distribution, volume fraction, strain rate, and temperature on the mechanical response and crack propagation, the complete failure mechanism from interface debonding to matrix crack is revealed. The results indicate that the mesh size significantly affects the sensitivity of matrix damage simulation, while interfacial strength and fracture energy markedly influence the overall mechanical performance of the composite. Variations in particle distribution and volume fraction lead to differences in crack paths and ductile behavior. Changes in strain rate and temperature cause a transition in the failure mode from interface-dominated to matrix-dominated. This study provides a theoretical basis and numerical tools for the multi-scale failure analysis and structural optimization of metal matrix composites.