The work in this study analyzed the failure of a specific family of fibrous monolithic composites (FMC). This material is classified in the advanced composite materials category which is being investigated for the replacement of contemporary materials for structural components in numerous applications. FMC’s are manufactured with diverse compositions for the fiber/matrix combination which limits the information available on given combinations. The materials studied utilize a structure where continuous, oriented fiber materials are placed in a polymeric matrix. Additional filament reinforcement is added by Carbon or Kevlar filament tows embedded within the matrix.

Specimens were tested under quasi-static monotonic tensile loading and tension-tension fatigue with varying frequencies dependant on the magnitude of the load. Additionally, a statistical model as well as a mixture model was developed to help predict failure and properties of this material and compared with experimental results. The purpose of this study was to test, document, and help predict the material response and properties provided by different compositions of FMCs and document damage characteristics.

From this study, a better understanding of the response of this new material to simple mechanical loading techniques was achieved along with evaluation of damage progression through the material during loading. Material properties were documented from the experimental methods. It was concluded that the FMC properties and response were matrix dominated but filament reinforcement modulated. Most importantly, a characteristic reduction in stiffness was found to exist throughout the processing conditions of the FMC.