The effect of isothermal exposure on the transverse properties of a continuous fibre metal-matrix composite

The effect of isothermal exposure at 500° C on the transverse mechanical properties of 30 and 50 vol % continuous boron-fibre reinforced 1100 aluminium composites has been investigated. Experimental results indicate that the fibre-matrix interfacial reaction gives rise to an increase in the fibre-matrix bond strength. Consequently, the fracture mode undergoes a transition from interfacial debonding to fibre splitting with increasing exposure time. The fracture surfaces and fibre-matrix interfaces have been studied by scanning electron microscopy and the observations coincide with the above interpretation of the mechanical test results. Finally, a new theoretical model using Eshelby's theory is developed to analyse the stress-strain behaviour of a continuous fibre reinforced metal matrix composite subjected to transverse tensile loading.On leave from Pioneering R & D Laboratories, Toray Industries, Inc., 2-1, 3-chome, Sonoyama, Otsu, Shiga 520, Japan.