Size effect on the punch performance of brittle porous ceramics: Theoretical analysis and numerical simulation

This work provides a multi-scale investigation on the punch performance of brittle porous ceramics with a flat, square-ended die. The micro discrete representation of porous ceramics is built by imitating the natural formation process. The macro effective model is established based on continuum mechanics. The effects of thickness and relative density of the porous ceramic layer on the indentation depth and the stress field are predicted. Results...