The effective transverse moduli of a composite with degraded fiber-matrix interfaces

Abstract

A Generalized Self Consistent Model (GSCM) is applied to a composite containing multiple-coated fibers and the general solution for this model subject to a constant transverse shear loading at infinity is derived. The effective transverse shear modulus of the composite is determined through the use of the equality of the strain energy in the inhomogeneous composite and the equivalent homogeneous medium. The stress field at the interface of a metal matrix composite under the same loading condition is calculated. In addition, the reduction in the transverse bulk and shear stiffnesses of the fiber-matrix interface in a ceramic composite subject to materials degradation is determined through inversion of the known or measured values of its effective elastic constants. The stability of the inversion process is examined as well.