FINITE-ELEMENT MODELING OF INTERFACIAL FAILURE IN MODEL CARBON FIBER-EPOXY COMPOSITES

Finite element analysis has been used to model a single unsized carbon fibre embedded in an epoxy matrix subjected to tensile loading. The p redicted fibre strain distribution is compared with experimental data, obtained using the technique of laser Raman spectroscopy, for a numbe r of incremental applied strain levels. Good correlation is obtained o n the assumption that the prevailing mode of interfacial failure in th e composite involves a conical matrix crack initiating at the fibre en d. The geometry of the matrix crack is estimated on the assumption tha t the crack propagates in a self-similar manner.