Interaction Between Matrix Cracks in E-Glass/Epoxy 2 Dimensional Multi-Fiber Array Model Composites

Published

November 15, 2003

Author(s)

Gale A. Holmes, Walter G. McDonough, Joy P. Dunkers, Charles C. Han

Abstract

The interaction between fiber breaks in an E-Glass/Epoxy 2-D multifiber array that form matrix cracks during fiber fracture is presented. In contrast to the theoretical predictions of Hedgepeth and van Dyke (1967) the failure sites in fibers adjacent to a fiber with existing fiber breaks were found to be non-aligned. The interaction between these non-aligned fiber breaks produced sharp bands of high shear between adjacent breaks. Even though the global stress in the viscoelastic matrix relaxes with time, the stress in the shear bands did not relax with time. Hence, indicating permanent set deformation. The non-alignment of the fiber breaks and the origin of these shear bands are not well understood. However, shear bands emanating from the matrix crack under tensile loading conditions have been observed. In addition, optical coherence tomography was performed on the test specimens to detect the presence of residual curing stresses between the fibers.

Citation

Journal of Polymer Science Part B-Polymer Physics

Volume

41

Issue

No. 22

Pub Type

Journals

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Keywords

adhesion, fiber-fiber interaction, interface strength, multi-fiber fragmentation, optical coherence tomography, residual curing stresses, self-assembled monolayer, silane coupling agent

Citation

Holmes, G. , McDonough, W. , Dunkers, J. and Han, C. (2003), Interaction Between Matrix Cracks in E-Glass/Epoxy 2 Dimensional Multi-Fiber Array Model Composites, Journal of Polymer Science Part B-Polymer Physics, [online], https://tsapps.nist.gov/publication/get_pdf.cfm?pub_id=851947 (Accessed October 4, 2025)