Effects of interphase properties in unidirectional fiber reinforced composite materials

A micromechanical study has been performed to investigate the mechanical properties of unidirectional fiber reinforced composite materials under transverse tensile loading. In particular, the effects of different properties of interphase within the representative volume element (RVE) on both the transverse effective properties and damage behavior of the composites have been studied. In order to evaluate the effects of interphase properties on the mechanical behaviors of unidirectional fiber reinforced composites considering random distribution of fibers, the interphase is represented by pre-inserted cohesive element layer between matrix and fiber with tension and shear softening constitutive laws. Results indicate a strong dependence of the RVE transverse effective properties on the interphase properties. Furthermore, both the damage initiation and its evolution are also clearly influenced by the interphase properties.