Abstract
The work hardening behaviour of particulate reinforced metal matrix composites is not well understood. Experimental results indicate that the work hardening rate in such composites is dependent on volume fraction, particulate size and strain. An empirical model based on continuum principles, which takes particle cracking into ac count, is proposed. This model predicts the correct order of magnitude for the work hard ening rate as well the variation of the work hardening rate with microstructural parameters and strain.