The objective of the present study is to investigate the shear banding process observed in metallic multilayers by means of the discrete element method. For this purpose, a mesh of polygonal elements was generated in which the elements were linked by beams. A plasticity model was implemented for the beams using an adjustable yield criterion and a work-hardening rate. The structural properties of the model was validated by the Euler buckling theory. Calibration of the microscopic parameters was done based on the results from the indentation experiments. Multiple layers with different material properties were introduced into the samples on which the indentation tests were conducted. The results reveal that due to the layers relative movement, shear bands are formed and within the shear bands, the interfaces are highly deformed. Comparing the simulation results with experiments, it was concluded that the interfaces with high work-hardening rates, form shear bands which have the most resemblance to the reality.
