6. Micromechanics

In this chapter, we examine a variety of means of calculating elastic and physical constants of metal matrix composites, given the same constants for the individual components and the arrangement of components in the composite, and thermal stresses generated because of mismatch in the coefficient of thermal expansion (CTE) of the components. In fact, most of the material discussed in this chapter is applicable to all kind of composites. Specifically, we provide a micromechanical description of physical properties such as density, thermal expansion coefficients, thermal and electrical conductivity, and various elastic constants. Of particular interest are methods or expressions that predict elastic constants of composites because of the generally high anisotropy found in composites. A description of conventional and microstructure-based finite element techniques to predict the elastic and thermal constants is also provided.