FATIGUE LIFE DIAGRAM OF METAL MATRIX COMPOSITES

A metal matrix composite is made up of two materials having varied physical and mechanical properties, and hence its fatigue resistance depends on the strength of the weaker of its constituents at the given imposed loading conditions. Based on this assumption, the fatigue behaviour of some of the metal matrix composites is analysed in isothermal condition and a fatigue life diagram quantified by the mechanical properties of the constituents has been presented. The fatigue life regions, controlled by fibre fracture and matrix failure, have been quantitatively defined. The possibility of fatigue strength being independent of the number of fatigue cycles is also discussed.