Woodhead Publishing Science and Engineering of Short Fibre Reinforced Polymer Composites (Woodhead Publishing Series in Composites Science and Engineering)

In the past two decades injection molded short fibre reinforced polymers (SFRP) have become very common construction materials because these composites are commercially very attractive. The book summarises recent developments in this area and focuses on the fundamental mechanisms that govern the mechanical properties including strength, modulus and fracture toughness and thermal properties of SFRP materials. The major factors including properties of fibres and matrices, fibre length distribution and fibre orientation distribution, that influence the mechanisms and hence affect the mechanical and thermal properties of the composites are discussed. Key Features: Reviews the mechanical properties and functions of short fibre reinforced polymer composites (SFRP). Examines recent developments in the fundamental mechanisms of SFRP's. Assesses major factors affecting mechanical performance such as stress transfer and strength. discusses the extensive application of SFRP's in automobiles, durable consumer goods and electrical industries. Contents: Introduction to short fibre reinforced polymer composites; Extrusion compounding and injection moulding; Major factors on performance of short fibre reinforced polymers; Stress transfer in short fibre reinforced polymers; Strength of short fibre reinforced polymers; Elastic modulus of short fibre reinforced polymers; Flexural modulus of short fibre reinforced polymers; Thermal conductivity and expansion of short fibre reinforced polymer composites; Non-linear stress-strain behaviour; Fracture mechanics.