Dynamic tensile deformation of SiC_p/6061Al composite. Part 1: Strain hardening characteristic

An investigation was made on the dynamic tensile deformation and strain hardening characteristic of a SiC_P/6061Al composite and its matrix alloy using tensile split Hopkinson pressure bar apparatus. It is shown that under dynamic loading condition, as in the case of static loading, the strength of the SiC_P/6061Al is higher and its elongation to fracture is lower than those of 6061Al alloy. At a low strain, the dynamic tensile strain hardening exponent of the studied composite is higher than that of its matrix alloy. However, the strain hardening exponent of the composite decreases rapidly with increasing strain, and becomes lower than that of its matrix alloy at a higher strain. The deformation and damage mechanisms are discussed in terms of dislocation.