The Influence of Fiber/Matrix Interface Properties on Complementary Energy and Composite Damage Tolerance

This paper reviews recent research on cement based composites design for damage tolerance. Specific focus is placed on the influence of fiber and interface properties on the complementary energy of the composite crack bridging behavior, which in turn governs the mechanics of composite fracture. The theoretical concepts are illustrated with examples of highly damage tolerant cement based composites containing fiber types with and without chemical interfacial bonds. The composite fracture and damage tolerant behaviors are rationalized with the mechanics of steady state cracking in fiber composites.