Simplified composite micromechanics equations for hygral, thermal and mechanical properties

Abstract

A unified set of composite micromechanics equations of simple form is summarized and described. This unified set can be used to predict unidirectional composite (ply) geometric, mechanical, thermal and hygral properties using constituent material (fiber/matrix) properties. This unified set also includes approximate equations for predicting (1) moisture absorption; (2) glass transition temperature of wet resins; and (3) hygrothermal degradation effects. Several numerical examples are worked-out to illustrate ease of use and versatility of these equations. These numerical examples also demonstrate the interrelationship of the various factors (geometric to environmental) and help provide insight into composite behavior at the micromechanistic level.