Abstract

Matrix/Inter-fibre failure is characterized by the appearance at the fiber-matrix interfaces of small debonds that can progress along them until reaching a certain extension, then, changing their orientation kinking towards the matrix and finally growing through it. The particular case of compressive loading is specially interesting, given the morphology of the interface cracks and the specific angle that the macrocracks form in the matrix.To date, the analysis of this problem at micromechanical level has been carried out mainly by means of Finite Element or Boundary Element models. In this work, the problem is approached from the experimental point of view, observing under the microscope specimens previously tested at different loading levels. Several aspects such as the identification of the phases of the faliure mechanism, the kinking angle, the extension of the interface cracks and the presence of damage as a function of the loading level are studied.