Effect of strain rate on the mechanical properties of composites with a weak fibre/matrix interface

Modelling studies have indicated a strong effect of the rate of deformation on the tensile strength of composites with a weak fibre/matrix interface. At high rates, the mode of deformation changes from a fibre pull-out to a fibre breaking mechanism typical of good adhesion composites. As a result, the mechanical properties become independent of those of the fibre/matrix interface. The model predictions are of great importance because they allow a straightforward identification of composites with poor fibre-matrix adhesion.