Transverse Stiffness Prediction of Fibrous Metal Matrix Composites

Abstract

This paper presents two new 3D finite element Multi Fiber Models (MFM) that account for the effects of neighboring fibers on the stress distribution over fiber-matrix interface. One model assumes a hexagonal packing pattern of the neighboring fibers whereas the other assumes that the neighboring fibers are packed in a square pattern. Two scenarios regarding the contact surface between the fiber and the matrix are considered: the first one assumes no bond over the interface while in the other one the interface is perfectly bonded. The cooling process of the composite was simulated and then a transverse loading is applied to the composite. The results indicate that packing system and the characteristics of the fiber-matrix interface greatly influence the magnitude of the residual stresses developed in the matrix.