Identification of creep damage variable from A-parameter by a stochastic analysis

Abstract Identification of creep damage variable D of continuum damage theory from the metallographic A- parameter is discussed. By performing a stochastic analysis, A- parameter , defined as the observed fraction of cavitated grain boundaries on the observation plane, was first related to the cavity area fraction on the grain boundary facet planes. Based on the results of this analysis, the cavitation damage states of some engineering alloys were estimated by use of the data of the measured A- parameter . Finally, according to the usual interpretation of the damage variable D , specific D-A relations were derived. The validity and the utility of the proposed D-A relations, based on the test results of an engineering alloy, are discussed.