Paper number 281

MODELLING THE EFFECT OF A DISCRETE INTERPHASE ON THE FRAGMENTATION PROCESS IN POLYMER MATRIX COMPOSITES

R. Lane, S. A. Hayes and F. R. Jones

Department of Engineering Materials, University of Sheffield, Sheffield, S1 3JD. England.

Summary BR>A two dimensional axisymmetric finite element model has been developed which investigates the effect of a fibre fracture and the subsequent stress redistribution to different interphase and matrix combinations. Three purely elastic and two elasto-plastic components were defined and used in various combinations to create five model matrix / interphase systems. A purely elastic matrix or interphase was shown to develop strain in the resultant fibre fragments exponentially. Inclusion of an elasto-plastic matrix or interphase lead to a linear strain transfer where yielding occurred and an increased stress transfer length. The inclusion of an interphase with different properties to the matrix and fibre highlighted the possibility of tailoring fibre coatings and matrices to give better strength or toughness or impact performance by altering the stress transfer or positively affected length following fibre fracture.
Keywords interphase, finite element method, fragmentation, plasticity.

Theme : Interface and Interphase ; Mechanical Properties

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