Influence of Reinforcement Morphology on the Mechanical Properties of Short-Fiber Composites

摘要

A major problem of short-fiber composites is that the interfaces between the fiber and matrix become a limiting factor in improving mechanical proerties such as strength. For a short fiber, a strong interface is desired to effectively transfer load from matrix to fiber, thus reducign the ineffective fiber length. However, a strong interface will make it difficult to relieve fiber stress concentration in front of an approaching crack. Stress concentrations result in fiber breakage. We report in this paper an innovative approach to overcome thsi problem: reinforcement morphology design. Short-fibers with enlarged ends are processed and used to reinforce a polyester matrix. The initial results show that the bone-shaped sort-fibers produce a composite with significantly higehr strength than can be attained with conventional short, straight fibers.