Failure Analysis of Fiber Composites at Phase Interface

Abstract

Failure criteria of fiber reinforced composites expressed in terms of externally applied stresses are derived based on the interface stress distribution. The composite is modeled by a single inclusion surrounded by a matrix which possesses the properties of the composite. Using the Eshelby’s method and the self-consistent approximation, the interface stress can be derived analytically as a function of fiber and matrix properties and the fiber volume fraction. Using the proposed method, failure envelopes can be drawn that can properly reflect the effect of fiber shapes and anisotropy.