Dynamic fiber debonding and frictional push-out in mode composite systems: Experimental observations

In the present work a modified Split Hopkinson Pressure Bar (SHPB) system is adopted to perform dynamic fiber push-out experiments on model single fiber composite systems. A tapered punch and a support connect a monofilament composite with the incident and transmitted bars of the SHPB. The tapered punch is used to apply compressive loading to a single fiber (either steel or aluminum) embedded in a surrounding matrix material (EPON 862). The SHPB allows real time measurement of relative fiber/matrix displacement and push-out force, as the debonding and push-out event progresses. Using this technique we have studied the effect of loading rate, material mismatch, fiber length, and surface roughness on the push-out event. It was seen that maximum push-out force increases with increasing loading rate. In addition dynamic interfacial strength and toughness is highly dependent on fiber surface roughness. Results from a finite element analysis incorporating a cohesive failure model were used to extract interface strength and toughness values. It was found that the particular aluminum/EPON interface used is characterized by a dynamic shear failure strength of 48±8 MPa, a mode II fracture toughness of 160±40 N/m, and a friction coefficient of 0.2 at a sliding rate of 6 m/s. For the rates tested here these quantities were found to be approximately constant.