A Multiscale Model of Plasticity Based on Discrete Dislocation Dynamics

We present a framework coupling continuum elasto-viscoplasticity with three-dimensional discrete dislocation dynamics. In this approach, the elastic response is governed by the classical Hooke’s law and the viscoplastic behavior is determined by the motion of curved dislocations in a three-dimensional space. The resulting hybrid continuum-discrete framework is formulated into a standard finite element model where the dislocation-induced stress is homogenized over each element with a similar treatment for the dislocation-induced plastic strain. The model can be used to investigate a wide range of small scale plasticity phenomena, including microshear bands, adiabatic shear bands, stability and formation of dislocation cells, thin films and multiplayer structures. Here we present results pertaining to the formation of deformation bands and surface distortions under dynamic loading conditions and show the capability of the model in analyzing complicated deformation-induced patterns.