Analytical models are presented for: (1) monolayer composite fabrication, (2) consolidation of monolayer composites into plates, and (3) composite deformation under transverse compression. Upper-bound solutions of the models are developed by using the limit analysis of plastic theory. These solutions depend on (1) the flow stress of the matrix material, and (2) frictional coefficients for the fiber-matrix and for the matrix-die interfaces. They were determined experimentally from compression ring tests.

The analytical predictions of the average consolidation pressure are in good agreement with experimental results for an aluminum matrix from room temperature to 750°F (399°C). Transverse compression deformations were examined by several methods including scanning electron microscopy for aluminum-steel wire, aluminum-Borsic, and aluminum-nickel unidirectionally solidified composites. The analytical predictions for flow line directions from a proposed strip compression model agree with the experimentally determined angles.