Page 8 - Engineered Interfaces in Fiber Reinforced Composites

It is a pleasure to write the foreword to this book. This work emphasizes for the first
time in one volume how interfaces in fibrous composites can be defined, measured,
improved and optimized. Many practitioners of composites technology will find in
this book the information they have been seeking to match fiber and matrix at the
interface, thereby obtaining the best mix of properties in the final application.
Composites engineering is a relatively young field in which the test methods and
measurement techniques are not yet fully developed. Even more important, the ideas
linking the properties of composites to the interface structure are still emerging. This
book not only reviews the historic and pragmatic methods for studying composites;
but it also presents the most recent theories and fundamental tests of interface
properties. This allows the reader to find the true framework of theory to fit his/her
observations.
The fact that two brittle materials can be brought together to give a tough product
is the proof that interfaces are critical to composite properties. However, the
complexities of this process depend on the raw materials, on the surface chemistry of
the components, on the fabrication procedures, on the chemistry of hardening, and
on the damage and corrosion sustained in use. A wide view of material science,
chemistry, mechanics, process engineering and applications experience is necessary
to focus successfully on the role of the interface. The authors have demonstrated
such a global view in this volume.
I have known Professor Mai for over 20 years. He is a foremost authority on
fracture mechanics of composite materials, having studied polymer composites,
cement, ceramic and natural composite systems, in the US, Britain, Australia and
Hong Kong. In particular, he has made memorable contributions to the
understanding of cracks and to the crack-inhibiting effects seen in fibrous
composites. He has previously coauthored two books on fracture. Professor Kim
originally worked in the composites industry and has returned during the past 10
years to study interface mechanisms more closely. He is currently working in the
Hong Kong University of Science & Technology.
In summary, the topic of engineered interfaces in composites is an important one,
critical to the advance of the composites industry. Many practitioners from a range
of disciplines are seeking the information which can be found in this book. The
authors display the wide experience and theoretical knowledge necessary to provide
a critical view of the subject. I strongly recommend this volume to the composite
expert and student alike.
Kevin Kendall
Keele University, UK
May 1997

V