INTERFACIAL MECHANICS IN FIBER-REINFORCED METALS

It is well known that mechanical characteristics of the fibre-matrix interface in MMCs have a strong influence on various properties. However, there is much uncertainty surrounding the question of how best to control the structure of the interfacial region in order to optimise particular types of composite performance. In this paper current thinking on how interfacial characteristics affect composite properties is briefly summarised. The importance of different types of stress relaxation processes is emphasised. This is followed by some observations about testing procedures designed to measure bond strength in MMCs. It is noted that these invariably involve predominantly shear loading, whereas there is a need to explore the response of interfaces to tensile and mixed mode conditions. Finally, some observations are presented on interfacial chemical reactions and the development of fibre coatings.