95/04076 Thermal insulation — Avoiding risks

Abstract

This chapter provides an introduction to the generic types of constituents, manufacturing defects, and in-service defects to be found in composite materials based on continuous fibers. First, the basic composite constituents are outlined. Next, fiber–matrix debonding, matrix cracking damage, fiber fractures, and delaminations are discussed for simple fiber architectures in order to introduce some basic ideas relating to damage accumulation. Subsequent chapters of the book deal with more complex fiber architectures and/or types of loading and elaborate on the strategies used for modeling damage accumulation.