Optimal fiber configurations for maximum torsional rigidity (Q1283095)

The paper deals with optimal fiber configuration in prismatic shafts with given cross-sectional area of reinforced fibers. It is assumed that the fibers are imperfectly bonded to the shaft and that the joint area of fiber cross-sections is fixed. Subject to these conditions, the author investigates the problem of finding the shaft and fiber cross-sections that yield the maximum torsional rigidity. The answer is shown to depend upon the magnitude of a distinguishing parameter which has dimension of length and measures the influence of the imperfect bond, i.e. the mismatch between matrix and fiber compliance. The necessary background and a description of this parameter are provided. As illustration, the author presents results for shafts with circular cross-section reinforced with a single fiber with circular cross-section.