FIBER-MATRIX INTERFACE - INFORMATION FROM EXPERIMENTS VIA SIMULATION

This study explores a novel procedure for obtaining quantitative infor mation on the mechanical properties of the fiber-matrix interface in c omposite materials. The method, based on lattice discretization of a m edium, simulates actual experiments in detail, including fiber breakag e, matrix yield and/or cracking, and interface failure. The paper conc entrates on two experiments performed commonly, the so-called fragment ation test for metal matrix, acid the pushout/pullout test for metal a s well as ceramic matrix composites. Based on the documented capabilit y of the method to simulate actual experimental data, reliable values of (homogenized) interface properties can be obtained. In addition, th e simulations provide further understanding of the mechanisms involved during the relevant testing. Although this study presents results fro m basic problems, the method is general enough to include effects of r esidual stress, of high temperature environment, and of dynamic crack propagation, as well as three-dimensional details of the interface fai lure process. The potential exists for simulating nondestructive wave- based techniques aimed at evaluating interface properties.