Influence of the Curing Process on the Fatigue Strength and Residual Strength of a Fiber Composite Estimation Using the Theory of Markov Chains

The paper deals with the influence of quality failure of matrix post-curing on the strength of such complex and difficult "new generation" materials as fiber composites, especially those with polymer matrix. The performed statistical analysis of the components determined the complexity of the layered composite structure. And the developed model of the weakest micro-volume presented in this paper has helped to describe not only the pre-dictable strength of the laminate, but also the nature of failure, taking into account the fiber stresses and/or the distribution of end strains in the structure of the composite under consideration. The strength of fibre composi-te structures based on Markov chain theory takes into account technological aspects during the curing process. The presented model was verified on the basis of literature examples and experimental data obtained during the testing process. Numerical results show good agreement with literature examples and measured data. The pre-sented model may represent a novel method that provides further insight into the curing process of epoxy re-sins.