Numerical simulation of tensile behavior of corroded aluminum alloy 2024 T3

Abstract

Purpose – The purpose of this paper is to develop a multi-scale modeling approach for simulating the tensile behavior of corroded aluminum alloy 2024 T3. Design/methodology/approach – The approach combines two FE models: a model of a three-dimensional representative unit cell representing a pit and a model of the tensile specimen. The models lie at the micro- and macro-scales, respectively. The local homogenized mechanical behavior of the corroded material is simulated for different pit configurations. Then, the behavior of the pits is introduced into different areas (elements) of the tensile specimen and final analyses are performed to simulate the mechanical behavior of the corroded material. The approach has been applied to six different exposure periods of the exfoliation corrosion test. Findings – The numerical results show that the presence of pits and exfoliated areas reduces the yield strength of the material. The comparison of predicted elongation to fracture with the experimental of each exposure period value allows for the indirect assessment of the effect of hydrogen embrittlement. Originality/value – Since the characteristics of corrosion damage evolution with exposure time are constant for the specific material, the model could be applied for the simulation of the mechanical behavior of any corroded structural part (e.g. a mechanically fastened panel) made from the aluminum 2024 T3 alloy.