Mechanics Model for the Compressive Response of Fiber Reinforced Composites

摘要

This article presents a model for the uni-axial compressive response of uni-directionally reinforced fibrous composite. The model incorporates the non-linear shear response and the failure strain of the matrix, accounting for both aspects within a non-linear field equation which governs the load-deflection process. In addition, the model considers the effects of two kinds of geometric imperfections, namely, initial fiber waviness and random fiber spacing. It is shown that under uni-axial compression random fiber spacing may instigate the formation of severe transverse loadings on the fibers which suggest the existence of a transitional mechanism from micro-buckling to micro-kinking. Computational results are presented which illuminate the effects of several material and geometric factors on the compressive strength of composites.