Prediction of Mechanical Properties of Unidirectional Fiber Reinforced Composite with Fiber-Matrix Interfacial Debonding Using Square Array

Abstract

The present investigation studies the influence of fiber-matrix interface debond on the micromechanical behaviour of fiber reinforced composite lamina. Three dimensional finite element models have been developed from the representative volume elements of the composite which are in the form of square unit cells. Mechanical properties are determined for three different values of fiber volume fraction (V_f ). The finite element software NISA has been successfully executed to evaluate the properties. The results of the present analysis are in close agreement with solutions available in the literature for perfectly bonding as well as complete debond at fiber-matrix interface. The method is extended to analyse the cases where debond exists along the length of the fiber and extends around the circumference at the interface of the fiber and matrix. The debond effect on the mechanical properties is discussed.