On the Sliding Friction Characteristics of Unidirectional Continuous FRP Composites

By applying a closed-form analytical solution of Hwu and Fan (1998) for an anisotropic half-plane, the contact characteristics of unidirectional continuous fiber-reinforced plastic (FRP) composites are investigated. The particular condition of a rigid parabolic cylinder in frictional sliding contact with the composite is evaluated. The influences of FRP composite matrix material, friction coefficient, fiber material, fiber orientation, and fiber volume fraction on the surface contact pressure are determined and evaluated by comparison to published experimental data and results from the finite element method. From the analytical results, several important trends for the contact characteristics of fiber-reinforced plastics are ascertained and discussed with respect to the wear and design- ability of FRP materials.