Transformation toughening in nial observed via monte-carlo simulations

Using a Landau free energy function derived from NiAl Embedded Atom Method interatomic potentials, we conducted Monte-Carlo simulations on a cracked body. Martensite develops around the crack tip in alternating variant plates. The resulting increase in toughness is estimated through an energy analysis, in terms of stress intensity factor reduction. Transformations with both a finite and a zero volume change transformation have also been studied to determine the importance of the dilatational versus shear effect on transformation toughening. The shear contribution was found to be dominant.