Method of Fundamental Solution in Thermoelasticity of Random Structure Matrix Composites

Abstract

One considers linear thermoelastic composite media, which consist of a homogeneous matrix containing a statistically homogeneous random set of aligned homogeneous heterogeneities of non-canonical (i.e. non-ellipsoidal) shape. The representations of the effective properties (effective moduli, thermal expansion, and stored energy) are expressed through the statistical averages of the interface polarization tensors (generalizing the initial concepts, see e.g. [1] and [2]) introduced apparently for the first time. The new general integral equations connecting the stress and strain fields in the point being considered with the stress and strain fields in the surrounding points are obtained for the random fields of heterogeneities. The method is based on a recently developed centering procedure where the notion of a perturbator is introduced in terms of boundary interface integrals estimated by the method of fundamental solution for a single inclusion inside the infinite matrix. This enables one to reconsider basic concepts of micromechanics such as effective field hypothesis, quasi-crystalline approximation, and the hypothesis of ellipsoidal symmetry. The results of this reconsideration are quantitatively estimated for some modeled composite reinforced by aligned homogeneous heterogeneities of non canonical shape. Some new effects are detected that are impossible in the framework of a classical background of micromechanics.