Critical investigation on the effect of fiber geometry and orientation on the effective mechanical properties of fiber-reinforced polymer composites

Abstract

In this study, finite element method is used to investigate the effect of combined geometry and orientation of the fiber on the elastic properties of fiber-reinforced composites. The finite element models were developed using COMSOL Multiphysics. Representative volume elements consisting of circular, square and elliptical cross-section of fibers were used in the case of combined geometry while 0°, 15°, 30°, 45°,60°, 75°, 90° and 135° were angles considered for the fiber orientation. Results from the study show that the combined geometry and fiber orientation angle has significant effect on the performance of fiber reinforced composites.