The influence of the matrix on the behaviour in compression of fibre composites

The behaviour of long fibre composites subjected to tensile loads has been widely studied and theories concerning the failure mechanisms are accepted and included in standard texts. In many applications compressive strength is important and in flexure failure is often initiated on the compressive side of the composite. However, compressive failure has not been studied thoroughly, partly because of the large number of failure mechanisms which can occur and the difficulties in conducting meaningful compression tests. The aim of this work was to determine the influence of the matrix on the behaviour of long fibre composites subjected to compressive loads so that failure mechanisms could be predicted more accurately. [Continues.]