Agarwal and Broutman wrote a Text in '90 called "Analysis and Performance of Fiber Composites". It is a standard text at Winona State (class of '93).
As above, I am always cautious using any calculated values as gospel BUT...as analysis people we must start somewhere...
Assuming good bonding, straight fibers yada yada yada...
The rule of mixtures partially applies but only in a max strain concept...consider that the strain in the composite is equal in both components at any time (not a 'stretch'
Then ( I hope I get this right..)
Xt=Vf*Xtf+(1-Vf)*Xtmfs
(where Xtmfs is the tensile in the matrix at the fiber fracture strain value)
This makes sense when you consider that as long there is plenty of fiber that is where the load will be carried. If you really want to back of the envelope it then consider the load to only be carried by the fibers and the matrix becomes "insurance" that your fibers are straight and well bonded.
The last assumption is a little bit "cowboy" but if you are using particularly high strength fibers, and a general epoxy the contribution is minimal. The whole real world v.s ideal can be discussed ad nauseum but we all know the "book value" is always high from the "real value" because many book values are calculated or tested under such tight controls as you may never replicate in production.
It always pays to have someone break a few to be sure and get real values.
Please note - For transverse stress, you will get in to Halpin-Tsai equations.
The Broutman text and the one by KK Chawla cover micromechanics fairly well, if not I know other people you could talk to.
Darin
Darin.jensen@bellcomb.com
Chief Engineer
Bellcomb.com