Effect of Non-uniform Stiffness on Tensile Avalanche Process of Fibrous Materials

In order to analyze the effect of non-uniform stiffness in natural fibrous materials or artificial fiber-reinforced materials on the tensile avalanche process, the extended fiber bundle model with both random Young’s modulus and random fracture threshold is constructed. It is assumed that the Young’s modulus conforms to the power law distribution in the range between E min and 1; the minimum Young’s modulus E min and the power law exponent α are the two key parameters. The tensile fracture properties of the model were analyzed by analytical approximation and numerical simulation methods. During quasi-static loading condition, the minimum Young’s modulus E min , which affects the distribution range and distribution form of Young’s modulus, has a monotonous impact on the mechanical properties of the model, while the power law exponent α , which affects the inhomogeneity of Young’s modulus distribution, has a more complex effect on fracture mechanical properties and the fracture process.