Micromechanical analysis of the stress transfer in single-fiber composite: The influence of the uniform and graded interphase with finite-thickness

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• A new theoretical model is developed to analyze the stress transfer between fiber and matrix. • The interphase is assumed to be homogeneous or power-graded variation with radial location. • The present model is verified through a finite element model. • Stress distribution in composites are obtained under different conditions. A theoretical model is developed to analyze the stress transfer between fiber and matrix through the interphase with finite thickness. The Young's modulus of interphase is assumed to be homogeneous uniform or power-graded along radial direction while other material parameters are constants. The bonds between fiber and interphase as well as between interphase and matrix are perfect. The geometrical equations are strictly satisfied except that the radial displacement gradient with respect to the axial direction is neglected, as its magnitude is much smaller than that of the axial displacement gradient with respect to the radial direction. The equilibrium equations along radial direction are strictly satisfied, while the equilibrium equations along axial direction are satisfied in the integral forms. In addition, both the interfacial displacement and stress continuity conditions as well as stress boundary conditions are enforced exactly. Two coupled 2nd-order ordinary differential equations can be obtained in terms of average axial stresses in fiber and matrix. Finite element analysis (FEA) with refined mesh for single-fiber composite containing uniform interphase with finite thickness is developed to validate the present model. Series of parameter studies are performed to investigate the influence of interphase properties and thickness as well as the fiber volume content and model length on the stress distribution in composites.