Kinetic of fiber ruptures in a unidirectional composite with a viscoelastic matrix

Structural applications of fiber reinforced polymers are strongly dependent on long-term durability studies. Subject to sustained loading, the material undergoes several phenomena reducing its mechanical performances and potentially leading to its failure. To understand the creep rupture mechanisms and identify relevant mechanical parameters that will need to be adjusted during the composition of the material, modeling at the fibers scale seems adequate. In this article a shear-lag model will be presented. This 2D model integrates a viscoelastic behavior of the matrix and a stochastic distribution of fibers strength. Results showing the main phenomena occurring in the stress redistribution in the composite material will also be presented.