Prediction of the inter-fiber mechanical properties of composites: Part I standardization micro-scale modelling method and damage analysis

Abstract

In this paper, a standardization modelling method of composites micro-scale simulation is proposed, in which the random distribution of fiber, hydrostatic pressure sensitivity yield behavior of polymer matrix and friction effect in fiber/matrix interface are considered. After the detailed introduction of the constitutive models of polymer matrix and interface, the methods to determine the input data of polymer, fiber and interface are provided. Then the stress-strain curves of composites under uniaxial loads were simulated and compared with experiment, which proving the accuracy of the micro-scale model. Besides, the comparison of failure envelopes under transverse stress and longitudinal shear stress of simulation and experiment further verified the validity of the model. Finally, the influence of the geometry, friction coefficient and interface properties on the mechanical properties of composites were discussed. The proposed modelling method provides a standardization means to establish micro-scale model, thus easy to be reproduced by other researchers.