Optimization of toughness and strength properties in fibre composites with controlled interfaces

Jang Kyo Kim, Yiu Wing Mai

Research output: Chapter in Book/Report/Conference proceedingConference contributionpeer-review

1 Scopus citations

Abstract

A novel method is presented to achieve both high strength and high fracture toughness of fibre composites by means of a microductile interlayer between fibre and matrix. Experiments conducted on epoxy matrix composites reinforced with unidirectional Kevlar and carbon fibres (KFRP and CFRP) with a thin layer of thermoplastic coating, e.g. polyvinyl alcohol (PVAL), on the fibre show promising results for transverse fracture toughness without any significant loss in strength properties. Variation of fracture toughness with temperature is a direct manifestation of the dependence of the interface properties on the parameter studied. Interlaminar fracture toughness determined in mode I and mixed mode I/II delamination is also shown to be encouraging. Surface analysis of the fibre and composite interfaces confirms the distinctive failure mechanisms between the composites with and without the PVAL coating. A micromechanics analysis of the total fracture toughness arising from major failure mechanisms gives good agreement with experimental results. Characterization of the interface properties, including interfacial fracture toughness, residual clamping stress and coefficient of friction, using a fibre pull-out model based on a shear-lag analysis is discussed and applied to evaluate experimental data obtained in these composites.

Original languageBritish English
Title of host publicationProceedings of the International Conference on Advanced Composite Materials
EditorsT. Chandra, A.K. Dhingra
Pages69-77
Number of pages9
StatePublished - 1993
EventProceedings of the International Conference on Advanced Composite Materials - Wollongong, Aust
Duration: 15 Feb 199319 Feb 1993

Publication series

NameProceedings of the International Conference on Advanced Composite Materials

Conference

ConferenceProceedings of the International Conference on Advanced Composite Materials
CityWollongong, Aust
Period15/02/9319/02/93

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