Advances in Fiber–Matrix Interface: Cohesion Enhancement, Characterization and Modeling of Interfacial Debonding

Dear Colleagues,

The aim of this Topic is to offer a platform for researchers, scientists, engineers, and practitioners to showcase and disseminate their latest research findings, innovations, and insights in the field of understanding and enhancing fiber–matrix cohesion in polymer-based reinforced composites.

Environmental issues represent one of the primary problems in new industrial developments. For car manufacturers, one of the main directions in CO₂ reduction is to reduce the weight of structures, especially by replacing metallic parts with plastic composites. The use of short fiber-reinforced thermoplastic is thus widely increasing, even in under-the-hood applications. One of the main topics of research on the composites used for these applications is damage propagation through their microstructure, especially for difficult solicitation environments. The loss of reinforcement due to damage propagation slows the integration of such materials in the automotive and aeronautic industries.

This Topic emphasizes the advancement of knowledge on the damage phenomenon that can occur in polymer matrixes, both at the matrix–reinforcement interface and in the fibers, and its consequences on the mechanical properties of the composite.

This Topic welcomes a wide range of studies dealing with fiber–matrix cohesion enhancement and damage propagation in novel composites and/or single fibers. The subjects of interest include: experimental characterization of natural fibers, and interphase resistance as well as chemical treatments and/or manufacturing techniques allowing a better fiber/matrix cohesion.

Manuscripts that study the evolution of physical, chemical, or mechanical properties as a function of environmental conditions such as temperature and water absorption are highly encouraged.

Contributions documenting the analytical and numerical modeling of the damage process and propagation are also perfectly fitted to this Topic.

This Topic welcomes studies performed on all kinds of polymer-based matrixes, over a wide range of reinforcement architectures, from short fibers to yarns, as well as a wide range of manufacturing processes, from injection to additive manufacturing.

Dr. Quentin Bourgogne
Prof. Dr. Hamid Zahrouni
Dr. Hubert Chapuis
Topic Editors