Influence of matrix texture on modal work-of-fracture of carbon fiber reinforced pitch-based carbon composites

Abstract

Addition of carbon black into a precursor pitch was used to make several C/C composites with different matrix textures. Their modal work-of-fracture values were estimated by single edge notched beam test. Optical microscopy revealed that their matrix textures were changed from flow-type to fine mosaic texture as carbon black content increased. The work-of-fracture values of tensile and interlaminar shear modes were strongly dependent on the matrix textures.