CHARACTERIZATION OF FINITE-LENGTH COMPOSITES .1. INTRODUCTORY PAPER

A project representing a sizeable effort of IUPAC Working Party 4.2.1 on two thermoplastic matrices reinforced with three different fibre ty pes and involving two different injection techniques is introduced in terms of its objectives, adopted strategy, materials, main variables, outcome reporting and participating laboratories. This paper outlines details (constituents, composites, injection molding, mold cavity) com mon to all undertaken studies. At ;he same time it summarises the majo r outcome in terms of molding anisotropy and heterogeneity as both con trolled by the constituting materials - matrix and fibre and processin g conditions used for molding preparation. More detailed information w hich is contained in publications dedicated to individual areas under investigation, namely to: (1) Mechanical performance of injected molde d composites, (2) Studies on thin sections extracted from moldings (wa fers), (3) Determination of structural aspects of composites, (4) Mode lling of stiffness and (5) Rheological studies is referred to in appro priate places.