Theory of the General Deformation of Fiber Assemblies

A theory based on an energy method is proposed for the mechanics of a fiber mass under general deformation, including compression, extension, and shearing. The mass , is treated as a network composed of many fiber segments, each bounded by two neigh boring fiber contact points, and the individual mechanical behaviors of the segments are combined into the total response of the mass. The elastic moduli and Poisson's ratios are related to the strain-dependent density of fiber orientation, the spatial density of fiber length, and the properties of fibers. The basic scheme is so formulated as to be applicable to various kinds of fibrous assemblies such as paper, nonwoven fabric, yarn, etc.