Abstract
A single ply of unidirectional composite is modeled as a two-dimension al close packed lattice of circular fiber cross sections of infinite width and finite thickness. To introduce randomness fibers are removed at random from the lattice, leaving vacant lattice sites of matrix material, until a certain fiber volume fraction is reached. The effect of lattice thickness on the critical fiber fraction for percolation is calculated for this random, close packed fiber model. For a typical ply thickness of 24 fiber diameters, the critical fiber fraction for percolation is reduced by 20% from the infinite lattice value of 0.45 to a smaller value of 0.36. The percolation versus thickness results of the random square lattice of fibers are compared with those of the random close packed fiber model. Experimental measure ments of the increase in electrical conductivity of a single ply of graphite/ epoxy composite with decrease in ply thickness predicted by the random close packed fiber model, are presented.
Sign-in/Register to access full text options 
Talk to us
Join us for a 30 min session where you can share your feedback and ask us any queries you have
Schedule a callDisclaimer: All third-party content on this website/platform is and will remain the property of their respective owners and is provided on "as is" basis without any warranties, express or implied. Use of third-party content does not indicate any affiliation, sponsorship with or endorsement by them. Any references to third-party content is to identify the corresponding services and shall be considered fair use under The CopyrightLaw.
