Enhanced Composite Design Through Incorporation of Tribological Considerations in Micromechanical Models

This paper proposes a micromechanical framework for predicting the frictional behavior of composite surfaces. A numerical lattice-based model consisting of a block-spring network with the statistical distribution of local friction coefficient is introduced to determine the friction coefficients of the composite surface. Then, an analytical micromechanical model based on the Halpin-Tsai equation whose fitting parameter is related to the volume fraction of the components is developed to capture the high degree of non-proportionality of the friction coefficient to the volume fraction. The fitting parameter is calibrated to the numerical simulations and experimental data from the literature. The model is then used to predict the mechanical and frictional properties of hybrid carbon-glass-epoxy composites, and it is demonstrated how surface texturing can tune the friction coefficient. This research provides an efficient guide for designing composite parts subject to simultaneous mechanical loading and surface contacting, which are commonly encountered in sports applications. The findings of this study are significant for enhancing the design of composite materials for sports equipment and related industries.