An approach to micro-macro modeling of heterogeneous materials

A micro-macro strategy suitable for modeling the mechanical response of heterogeneous materials at large deformations and non-linear history dependent material behaviour is presented. When using this micro-macro approach within the context of finite element implementation there is no need to specify the homogenized constitutive behaviour at the macroscopic integration points. Instead, this behaviour is determined through the detailed modeling of the microstructure. The performance of the method is illustrated by the simulation of pure bending of porous aluminum. The influence of the spatial distribution of heterogeneities on the overall macroscopic behaviour is discussed by comparing the results of micro-macro modeling for regular and random structures.