Stress concentrations in non-convex second phase particles embedded in metal matrix submitted to large plastic deformations

Abstract
During hot rolling of aluminium alloys break-up of intermetallic (Mg ₂Si, FeAl) particles is observed. To control the final microstructure of the rolled aluminium sheet, the size and spatial distribution of such intermetallic particles has be controlled. Present paper is concerned with the stress concentrations in complex dendrite shaped elastic inclusions embedded in an elastic viscoplastic matrix. Finite element calculations on a unit cell containing a single inclusions with 1, 2 or 3 secondary dendrites explain how the load is transmitted from the matrix to the elastic particle. 3D and plane strain 2D finite element results are compared in order to show the most efficient method of determining particle break-up during hot rolling.