Characterization of strain field distribution in carbon fiber reinforced resin matrix composites using electron beam moiré and geometric phase analysis

•The deformation behavior of the carbon-fiber reinforced resin matrix composite during tensile loading were investigated via in situ scanning electron microscopy combined with the electron beam moiré and geometric phase analysis techniques.•The global and local strain field of composite material were measured and analyzed at the meso and nanoscale.•The strain field distribution around different types cracks were characterized via were characterized via GPA method under load.•The strain concentration factor and the ineffective length of the broken fiber were also measured experimentally. The meso and nanoscopic deformation behavior of the carbon-fiber reinforced resin matrix composite during tensile loading were investigated via in situ scanning electron microscopy combined with the electron beam moiré and geometric phase analysis (GPA) techniques. Electron beam lithography was used to fabricate a cross-grating with a pitch of 359 nm (2780 lines/mm) on the surface of the composite material to facilitate the direct measurement of the deformation. In situ observation of the composite subjected to tension were conducted to determine strain filed distribution under different loads. The global and local strain field were measured and analyzed at the meso and nanoscale. The strain field distribution around matrix transverse crack, cracks between fibers, interlaminar cracks, and broken fiber cracks were characterized via GPA under load. The strain concentration factor and the ineffective length of the broken fiber were also measured experimentally.