ABSTRACT
In this study we take inspiration from conventional composite materials, and from nature, and apply some of the concepts to the large strain behaviour of elastomer materials reinforced with discontinuous fibres. Whilst the focus of this investigation has been on the use of a transversely isotropic configuration, an out-of-plane reinforcement can be produced by such a method. Furthermore, the orientation of the fibres is achieved by using magnetically responsive nickel-coated carbon fibres in a magnetic field. This also means the overall material will respond to a magnetic field.
