Effect of soft and hard inclusions in tensile deformation and damage mechanism of Aluminum: A molecular dynamics study

The current study investigates the uniaxial tensile deformation and damage mechanism in single-crystal Aluminum (Al) in the presence of soft and hard inclusions. Spherical shaped Magnesium (Mg) and Titanium (Ti) are added as inclusions within an Al single crystal. Alteration in mechanical properties has been noticed in the presence of inclusions. Softening has been observed in the presence of Mg; while hardening in the presence of Ti. Low Young modulus of Mg inclusion and lack of dislocation activity results in less deformation, higher stress concentration at the interface, and early void nucleation in Al+Mg system. While high Young modulus of Ti inclusion and substantial dislocation activity prevails the large deformation, lower stress concentration at the interface, and slow fracture in Al+Ti system. The study provides an understanding of the governing fracture mechanism influenced by the inclusion. (C) 2021 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

Automated summary

This study investigates the uniaxial tensile deformation and damage mechanism in single-crystal Aluminum in the presence of soft and hard inclusions. Alterations in mechanical properties were noticed, with softening observed in the presence of Magnesium and hardening in the presence of Titanium. The study provides an understanding of the governing fracture mechanism influenced by the inclusion.