Application of generalized self-consistent method to predict effective elastic properties of bristled fiber composites

A self-consistent Eshelby method based on the three-phase model is developed to examine the behavior of bristled fiber composite material where the fibers are radially coated with micro/nanostructures such as microwhiskers, nanowires or carbon nanotubes (fuzzy fiber). The effective mechanical properties are determined by taking into account the additional bristled interphase layer that is formed between fiber and matrix due to the presence of these micro/nanofibers. The features of the proposed method are emphasized and comparative study with other methods is conducted. In addition, several parameters of the micro/nanofibers such as length, density, diameter and material affecting the effective properties of composites are examined. In general, the presence of bristled fibers can significantly improve the shear and transverse characteristics of composite materials.