Mechanical properties of rope-reinforced aluminium extrusions under quasistatic loading conditions

Abstract Compound-extruded unidirectionally reinforced lightweight profiles are a novel class of materials for the construction of load-bearing structures. In this paper, investigations of the reinforcing effect of ropes in compound-extruded aluminium profiles tested under quasistatic loading conditions are presented. In particular, the investigations lead to a characterisation of the interface between matrix and reinforcing element, as the compound's internal load transfer is a crucial factor in the overall mechanical properties. It could be shown that – in addition to a form fit – a diffusional bond evolves. Both Young's modulus and tensile strength could be increased by using a rope reinforcement. Furthermore, the results attained are compared to a theoretical model which was adapted to the deformation behaviour of compounds containing a single reinforcement.