Strength prediction of tensile loaded graphite fiber-reinforced aluminum composites containing circular holes

The residual strength of fiber-reinforced aluminum composite (Gr_f/Al) with circular holes was investigated and predicted by four prediction methods, including PSC, AVC, DZC, and the ECGM. The ‘knee’ points in stress—strain curve and fracture surfaces of Gr_f/Al with holes were analyzed. In order to apply the ECGM method, the apparent fracture energy of Gr _f/Al was determined through notched three-point bending test, which was 4.1 kJ/m². All four models provided prediction with good accuracy while the ratio of diameter/width of Gr_f/Al specimen ranged from 0.05 to 0.2. Furthermore, ECGM showed better accuracy than DZC while predicting the residual strength at the whole range (0.05—0.5).