A new continuum damage mechanics–based two‐scale model for high‐cycle fatigue life prediction considering the two‐segment characteristic in S‐N curves.

In this study, we propose a new two‐scale fatigue model based on continuum damage mechanics. A representative volume element (RVE) consisting of microinclusions and a matrix is constructed. Further, damage‐coupled constitutive equations are derived. The degradation in the mechanical properties of the RVE is determined by the damaged inclusions and matrix using the Mori‐Tanaka scheme. A numerical calculation of the fatigue lives of notched specimens is executed. This new model predicts high‐cycle fatigue (HCF) life more effectively, considering the two‐segment characteristic of S‐N curves of smooth specimens. This study provides novel insights into the evolution mechanism of HCF damage. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]