The mechanics of biocomposites

An overview is presented of the theoretical approach to the design of polymer composite materials. Composite materials with polymeric matrices are strong candidates for structural applications where high strength and stiffness to weight ratios are required. The fundamental analysis of the mechanical response of composite materials involves investigation on two levels, micro- and macro-scale. This approach encompasses micromechanics and macromechanics, extends to lamination theory and makes clear the physical significance of the basic concepts of composite material design. First, the mechanical behaviour is described of a unidirectional fibre-reinforced lamina as the basic building block of a laminate, showing stress-strain relationships in various coordinate systems. The design of laminates having suitable properties for a particular application is explained and short fibre-reinforced composites and particulate composites are examined. Finally, polymer nanocomposites are discussed as an interesting strategy to improve the mechanical properties of polymers. © 2010 Woodhead Publishing Limited All rights reserved.