Fiber/Matrix mechanical interaction in carbon fiber/bismaleimide model composites

The fiber/matrix interaction of high modulus (M40) and intermediate modulus (T800) carbon fibers with a bismaleimide resin has been studied by means of three micromechanical techniques involving a single fiber, namely, fragmentation, Raman spectroscopy, and pullout. A number of chemical treatments aimed at improving the fiber/matrix stress transfer at elevated temperature were tested. The stress transfer proved to be reduced by the temperature in the same way for all interfacial conditions. The limitations to the micromechanical characterization of model composites in temperature are emphasized.