Critical investigation on the effect of fiber geometry and orientation on the effective mechanical properties of fiber-reinforced polymer composites

In this study, finite element method is used to investigate the effect of combined geometry and orientation of the fiber on the elastic properties of fiber-reinforced composites. The finite element models were developed using COMSOL Multiphysics. Representative volume elements consisting of circular, square and elliptical cross-section of fibers were used in the case of combined geometry while 0 degrees, 15 degrees, 30 degrees, 45 degrees,60 degrees, 75 degrees, 90 degrees and 135 degrees were angles considered for the fiber orientation. Results from the study show that the combined geometry and fiber orientation angle has significant effect on the performance of fiber reinforced composites.