Finite-element analysis of thermal expansion and thermal mismatch stresses in a Cu–60vol%ZrW2O8 composite

Abstract Thermal mismatch stresses in the ceramic particles of a Cu–ZrW2O8 composite were calculated using a finite-element model, and found to be high enough to trigger a pressure-induced phase transformation, in agreement with previous measurements by X-ray diffraction. The calculated thermal expansion/contraction curves also agree with previous experimental dilatometric results.