A tangent finite-volume direct averaging micromechanics framework for elastoplastic porous materials: Theory and validation

In this communication, we present a reformulated finite-volume direct averaging micromechanics (FVDAM) framework for periodic multiphase materials with elastic-plastic phases. The original elastoplastic version is formulated using the secant stiffness matrix approach, which requires a computationally intensive solution procedure of the governing differential equations. For the first time, the reformulation makes use of the tangent plasticity matrix approach that incorporates linearities to the unit cell boundary value problem. The tangential FVDAM theory is implemented using a quasi-Newton-Raphson strategy that quantifies errors in the evaluation of surfaceaveraged stresses due to the linearization, hence allowing large load increments. The tangential formulation is vigorously and fully assessed vis-`a-vis the secant approach for porous unit cells on several aspects, including the convergence of the algorithmic implementation with mesh and step sizes, solution accuracy, and computation times. The reformulation simplifies the solution to the governing differential equations relative to its predecessor, albeit at the cost of more computational efforts for the reforming and reinverting of the global tangent stiffness matrix (or the so-called tangent operator). Additionally, advantages of the FVDAM theory relative to the classical finite-element homogenization are highlighted. The tangent FVDAM is employed to demonstrate the plasticity-triggered architectural effects in the response of periodic porous materials under different loading modes. The common mechanisms responsible for differences in the elastic-plastic response are attributed to the effective and hydrostatic stress alteration in the matrix phase. The current work paves the ground for the incorporation of FVDAM into readilyavailable commercial computational tools through the user material subroutines that are based on tangent stiffness approaches, which will produce a paradigm shift for FVDAM to solve the challenging multiscale structural problem.

Automated summary

In this study, a reformulated FVDAM framework is proposed for periodic multiphase materials, simplifying the solution process of differential equations by introducing the tangent plasticity matrix approach. The framework assesses errors in stress evaluation and allows large load increments using a quasi-Newton-Raphson strategy. The advantages of FVDAM theory over classical finite-element homogenization are highlighted, paving the way for its incorporation into commercial computational tools for solving challenging multiscale structural problems.