a) Most fiber-reinforced composites consist of three "parts": the fibers, the matrix, and the interfaces. Describe the major functions of each of these "parts".
b) Explain why a strong interface is a detriment to the properties of ceramic-matrix composites.
c) A composite is made up of 40% of filaments 100 mm in diameter of strength 3 GPa in a matrix of strength 80 MPa. The interfacial bond strength is 60 MPa. Determine the composite breaking strength if the filaments have average lengths of (a) 100 mm and (b) 2 mm.