The mechanical behaviour of PEEK short fibre composites

Short glass (GF) and carbon fibre (CF) reinforced poly-ether-ether-ketone (PEEK) composites were prepared by injection moulding and then microstructurally characterized. Their mechanical behaviour was determined by two different methods: a classical unidirectional tensile test and an immersion ultrasonic technique. The reinforcing effect of fibres is discussed in the context of the theory of reinforcement of Bowyer and Bader. Interfacial shear strength and critical fibre length at break are calculated for both PEEK/GF and PEEK/CF composites. Examinations of fracture surfaces of uniaxial tensile specimens revealed a higher adhesion of carbon fibres to PEEK matrix in regards to the adhesion concerning glass fibre-PEEK interfaces, which is in agreement with the results provided by the model. Compatibility of ultrasonic and tensile results is reported.