Theoretical characterization of the temperature‐dependent ultimate tensile strength of short‐fiber‐reinforced polymer composites

Abstract Short fiber/polymer composites (SFPCs) are increasingly applied in the field of high‐temperature structures. Its reliability at high temperatures has always been the core issue concerned by researchers. Here, utilizing the Force–Heat Equivalence Energy Density Principle, we developed a physically based model of temperature‐dependent ultimate tensile strength (TDUTS) for SFPCs. This model quantitatively considers the evolution of residual thermal stress, interface, fiber, and matrix performance as temperature increases. Meanwhile, the influence of fiber agglomeration frequently observed in composites and fiber orientation and length distribution is taken into account in the proposed model. The model predictions over a wide temperature range are validated against the experimental data available from the literature, indicating its reasonability and accuracy. The comparison with Kelly–Tyson model and Li's model is also performed. Additionally, the quantitative effects of the fiber agglomeration and interfacial shear strength on the TDUTS are discussed in detail. The present research not only provides an accurate and feasible approach to estimate the TDUTS of SFPCs, but also offers some helpful insights for the fabrication and design of such composites.