Simulation of crack propagation in fiber-reinforced bulk metallic glasses

Based on a phase-field model for deformation in bulk metallic glasses (BMGs), shear band formation and crack propagation in the fiber-reinforced BMG are investigated. Ideal unbroken fibers embedded in the BMG matrix are found to significantly influence the shear banding and crack propagation in the matrix. The crack propagation affected by fibers' length and orientation is quantitatively characterized and is described by micromechanics models for composite materials. Furthermore, fractures in some practical fiber-reinforced BMG composites such as tungsten-reinforced Zr-based BMG are simulated. The relation between the enhanced fracture toughness and the mechanical properties of fiber reinforcements is determined. Different fracture modes of BMG-matrix composites are identified from the systematic simulation studies, which are found to be consistent with experiments. The simulation results suggest that the phase-field modeling approach could be a useful tool to assist the fabrication and design of BMG composites with high fracture toughness and ductility. (C) 2009 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.