Continuous fiber reinforced glass composites functional

There are many ways to classify composites, including schemes based upon (1) materials combinations, such as metal-matrix, or glass-fiber-reinforced composites (2) bulk-form characteristics, such as laminar composites or matrix composites (3) distribution of constituents, such as continuous or discontinuous or (4) function, like structural or electrical composites. Scheme (2) is the most general, so we will utilize it here. We will see that other classification schemes will be useful in later sections of this chapter. 

The axial and transverse tensile moduli for a continuous, unidirectional glass-fiber-reinforced epoxy matrix composite as predicted by Eqs. (5.88) and (5.92) are given as a function of volume fraction fiber, E/, in Eigure 5.87. Since Ef E, Eq. (5.92) reduces to the approximate expression ... 

The surface treatment chemistry of glass fiber is normally tailored to match the product function. Reinforcement size chemistries must be compatible with a multitude of processes and with the composite material end-use performance criteria. Processes such as injection molding require chopped fibers with compatibility for thermoplastic compounds. Filament winding and pultrusion require continuous fibers with utihty in thermoset and thermoplastic compovmds. Typically three basic components cue used with glass size chemistries a film former, lubricant, and coupling agent. Readers are directed to the patent literature or [1] and [2] for more specific details. 

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