FEM simulations of tensile deformation and fracture analysis for CuW alloys at mesoscopic level

Considering the mechanical properties and fracture mechanism of CuW alloys determined by microstructures, finite element method (FEM) is employed to analyze the mesoscopic model using Voronoi tessellation technology. Heterogeneous plastic strain and stress distributions are obtained at mesoscopic level in order to reveal the deformation process and fracture mechanism of CuW alloys. Shear bands or microcracks induced by shear band appear at the Cu/W and W/W interfaces mostly, and then propagate along the interfaces. Therefore, mechanical strength of CuW alloys is determined by sintering neck mainly. Additionally, the microstructures of fracture surfaces are applied to verify the simulation results.