Dynamic tensile deformation of SiC_P/6061Al composite. Part 2: Strain rate sensitivity

A dynamic tensile experiment for a SiC_P/6061Al composite and its matrix alloy in an over-aged state was performed using split Hopkinson bar apparatus, and a study was made on the strain rate sensitivity of their tensile properties. Results show that SiC_P/6061Al composite and its matrix alloy exhibit and obvious strain rate effect of strength and fracture stain, and the strain rate sensitivity of the SiC_P/6061Al composite is higher than that of 6061Al alloy. The high strain rate sensitivity of the SiC_P/6061Al composite is considered to be originated from the high dislocation accumulation rate during dynamic deformation and the constraint of SiC particles on the surrounding matrix, which dramatically enhances strain rate of the matrix.