Microfailure mechanism

The actual contribution of this microfailure mechanisms to the interlaminar fracture energy of the composites tested under particular conditions are a function of the number of events taking place, the real area of fracture surface formed, and the size (length and width) of the damage zone (DZS) around the main crack. The larger the latter becomes the more side cracks have to be expected, and the more energy is consumed by plastic deformation of the polymer matrix material. 

Park, J.-M., Kim, D.-S. and Kim, S.-R. (2003) Interfadal properties and microfailure degradation mechanisms of bioabsorbable fibers/poly-L-lactide composites using micromechanical test and nondestructive acoustic emission. Composites Science and Technology, 63, 403 19. 

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