Abstract

In this work the mechanical behaviour of a epoxy resin reinforced with small particles has been studied. This study has been carried out by means of Finite Element Modelling (FEM). A number of models have been prepared with different volume fractions of particles and different particle geometry. The particles had different thickness to surface ratios. These particles were randomly distributed in the matrix with main surfaces parallel to the loading direction. In this study it was found that, as the thickness to surface ratio decreases, the stiffening effect of the particles is more effective. This behaviour was observed for all volume fractions studied. On the other hand, in mechanical tests carried out in parallel experimental programs it was observed that the addition of degassers and reducers of surface tension in the manufacture of the test pieces had an appreciable effect on the final mechanical properties. Due to this, the influence of the porosity on the aparent elastic modulus of the resins was also modelled.