A micromechanical model for kink-band formation: Part II—Analytical modelling

An analytical micromechanical model for kink-band formation in an unidirectional fibre-reinforced composite is developed. This is supported by the conclusions of experimental and numerical programmes (presented in Part I of this paper) and is based on the equilibrium of an imperfect fibre laterally supported by an elasto-plastic matrix. The model predicts the longitudinal compressive strength of the composite (in closed form), the deflection and main stress fields in fibres and matrix at different stages of kink-band formation, the kink-band width, and the orientation of the fibres at the onset of fibre failure.