Abstract
Fiber fragmentation behavior in a single carbon fiber reinforced epoxy composite is investigated experimentally and analytically. Strength distribution of the carbon fiber is also measured. Fiber fragmentation process is observed during tensile loading on the composites. The effect of loading rate on the fiber fragmentation behavior is discussed. The statistical prediction model of fiber fragmentation behavior assuming that the constant interfacial shear stress presents is used to estimate the interfacial shear stress. It is found that the fiber fragmentation behavior is well predicted by using the measured fiber strength distribution and an assumed interfacial shear stress. A Monte Carlo simulation technique in which a stress transfer model based on the linear elasticity is used is also conducted to describe the fiber fragmentation behavior. The effect of loading rate on the failure process around the fiber breaks is also discussed.
