Work-hardening theory of fibre-reinforced composities

Abstract

The work-hardening rate dσ_M/d∊ is calculated of a composite of a plastic matrix between elastic fibres. A model is used of dislocations piling up on slip planes spaced by D_y and forming an angle of 45° with the fibre direction. The resulting dσ_M/d∊ are shown to fit experimental data by Kelly and Lilholt as a function of fibre diameter and volume fraction of fibres with D_y as the only parameter of the theory.