is it true to say that the mechanical properties (tensile strength and stiffness) are mainly affected by the collagen volume fraction, while the failure strain/compliance are affected by the matrix?
which component (matrix or fibers) influnce the failure strain?
how will the strain failure change with increasing the alginate concentration?
Hello,
Yes, it is true that the tensile strength and stiffness will increase if the volume of collagen is increased, as the fibers are responsible for carrying the main load. Increasing the fraction will improve the properties, but the whole composite will become brittle as the percentage increases. In the case of alginate, a larger volume fraction can improve ductility, resulting in an improved failure strain. However, be cautious, as an excessive increase can lead to a decrease in mechanical strength.
Additionally, you have not mentioned the volume fraction of fibers. I bring this up because the behavior varies for critical volume fractions and other values. Generally, if the volume fraction of fibers is large, the fibers break first, and then the load is transferred to the matrix, which is very high, causing the matrix to fail immediately—i.e., the whole composite fails at the same load. In contrast, if the volume fraction of fibers is less than the minimum volume fraction (Vmin), the matrix shows some strain before failing.
Feel free to ping me if you have any doubts.