Abstract
We develop a theory for predicting the elastic properties of anisotropic, composite sheet-materials reinforced by chopped fibres which, although randomly oriented initially, are preferentially oriented by compression moulding of the sheet material. The theory is a generalisation of previously developed theories for transversely isotropic, sheet materials with randomly oriented fibres. The analysis shows that the magnitude and direction of preferential stiffening depend on the geometry of the charge and mould, and that the anisotropy can be controlled by adjusting the charge shape. Predictions of the theory agree, to within experimental accuracy, with the results of tests on glass fibre/polyester resin panels.
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