The paper presents an alternative approach to matrix fragmentationin unidirectionally reinforced CMCs. It is based on a description ofthe distribution of fracture-inducing flaws using the Beta function.A flaw-strength density function is then derived usinglinear-fracture mechanics. This model allows prediction of themechanical behavior from characteristics of the fibres, the matrixand the interphase. It is applied to SiC/C/SiC minicomposites testedunder tension. The computed force- strain behaviour of theminicomposites is found to be in good agreement with the experimentalresults. It is compared to that predicted using theAveston-Cooper-Kelly approach. Finally, the flaw densities functiondetermined for the CVI-SiC matrix highlighted a scale effect.
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