MICROSTRUCTURAL IMAGE-ANALYSIS APPLIED TO FIBER-COMPOSITE MATERIALS -A REVIEW

Current definition of the microstructure of fibre-reinforced composite materials is usually limited to the definition of the materials used and the proportion and orientation of the fibres. Significant differen ces can be achieved within such a definition, particularly in respect of the spatial distribution of fibres within the material. The microst ructure-mechanics relationship is gaining importance as the discipline of mesomechanics. Recent advances in computer hardware, and in softwa re for image processing and analysis, have permitted the rapid definit ion of spatial microstructural parameters. This paper reviews the prep aration of samples for optical microscopy and the use of image analysi s for the definition of microstructure in fibre-reinforced composites.