The effect of particle shape size and interface strength on the mechanical properties of HEA/Al composites by 3D finite element simulation

In this work, the mechanical properties of Al-based composites (AMCs) reinforced with high-entropy alloy (HEA) particles of various particle morphologies, sizes, and interface behaviors was thoroughly investigated by using ABAQUS finite element simulation. The results revealed that the HEA/Al composites reinforced with small particles exhibited superior strength and ductility under ideal, strong and weak interface condition. For both of cubic and spherical HEA particles reinforced AMCs, the interfacial damage occurs preferentially in the large particles reinforced AMCs and has a faster propagation rate. Under the same interface conditions, the HEA/Al composites reinforced with spherical particles suffering from a less degree of interface damage, exhibited higher strength and ductility. The results also revealed that as interface strength decreases, the effect of particle size on mechanical properties of HEA/Al composites become more significant, and the cubic particle reinforced composites are more sensitive than that of spherical ones. This study provides a theoretical basis for the selection of HEA particles in the HEA/Al composites.