Calculation of the transverse modulus of a unidirectional composite material and of the modulus of an aggregate. Application of the rule of mixtures

The possibilities provided by the rule of mixtures are well-known as regards the calculation of the longitudinal modulus and the Poisson's ratio of a unidirectional composite material. Its limits for determining the transverse and shear moduli are also known. The aim of this study is to demonstrate that the transverse and isotropic moduli of an aggregate can be accurately determined by use of the rule of mixtures as far as a more realistic model is used. The numerical results are confirmed by finite-element modelling.