Phase-field modeling of multivariant martensitic microstructures and size effects in nano-indentation

Abstract

A finite-strain phase-field model is developed for the analysis of multivariant martensitic transformation during nano-indentation. Variational formulation of the complete evolution problem is developed within the incremental energy minimization framework. Computer implementation is performed based on the finite-element method which allows a natural treatment of the finite-strain formulation and of the contact interactions. A detailed computational study of nano-indentation reveals several interesting effects including the pop-in effect associated with nucleation of martensite and the energy-lowering breakdown of the symmetry of microstructure. The effect of the indenter radius is also examined revealing significant size effects governed by the interfacial energy.