EFFECT OF EXTRINSIC AND INTRINSIC-FACTORS ON AN INDENTATION TEST

The effect of intrinsic and extrinsic factors on the measured results, such as load-displacement curves and interfacial stresses, from inden tation tests of composite materials is studied using both analytical a nd finite element models. The intrinsic factors include properties of the fiber-matrix interface and the material symmetry of the cider (tra nsversely isotropic or isotropic). The extrinsic factors include the r adius of the hole through which the fiber is pushed in, and the size a nd shape of the indentor. Out of the above factors, only the radius of the hole is found to have a negligible effect on the results of the i ndentation test. Copyright (C) 1996 Elsevier Science Ltd.