Micromechanics of fibre fragmentation in model epoxy composites reinforced with α-alumina fibres

The micromechanics of fibre fragmentation in α-alumina/epoxy model composites have been investigated. Both sized and desized Nextel 610 α-alumina fibres embedded in room- and high-temperature (80°C) cured epoxy resin matrices have been used. The technique of luminescence spectroscopy has been used to map the strain along the fibres during tensile loading of the matrices, and the distribution of interfacial shear stress has been derived by using a force-balance consideration. The experimental data were modelled with shear-lag analyses that account for both the elastic load transfer and friction at a debonded interface. The effects of fibre sizing, matrix curing temperature and fibre surface roughness upon the interfacial shear strength have also been determined.

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