A model for determining fiber reinforcement efficiencies and fiber orientation in polymer composites

Fiber length contributions to the reinforcement potential in composites have been decoupled from fiber orientation effects with the use of a fiber orientation model. Fiber length efficiency factors and fiber orientation factors are calculated based upon a procedure that requires measuring the composite properties in specified directions relative to a reference direction. The procedure is straightforward and relatively quick compared to the tedious task of actually measuring the fiber length distribution. An example illustrating the utility of the procedure is given and then followed by a discussion qualifying the significance of the factors and the results.