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We use an homogenisation method in order to predict the failure behaviour of metal-matrix composites. The main damage mechanism is particle failure. We study the influence of an heterogeneous dispersion of the reinforcement on the damage development and the failure strain of composites which contain locally a higher volume fraction of reinforcement. We compare experimental and theoretical results.

Herein is contained a study of the compressive properties of glass/carbon laminated composites.

The effect of the laminate stacking sequence upon the tensile modulus, the ultimate tensile strength and the failure strain was determined for symmetrical 8-ply laminates of APC-2 with ±45° orientations. Classical lamination theory predicts that the stacking sequence will have no effect on these properties. However, results showed that both the strength and the failure strain increased as the ply number was increased. Fractography suggested that the stacking sequence effect was due to an increase in the amount of interlaminar and intralaminar shear with ply number.

The evolution of matrix cracks during incremental monotonic loading was followed using in situ radiography and was documented as a function of strain. Three commercial available matrices with a matrix failure strain ranging from low to very high were selected. From these tests can be concluded that the matrix properties greatly influence initiation and propagation of matrix cracks.