The random critical-core model is adapted to investigate the tensile failure mech-anism and hybrid effect of unidirectionally arrayed hybrid composites with alternating low andhigh elongation fibers.By utilizing the model in conjunction with the results of the stress con-centration analysis in which the interfacial damage between fiber and matrix is considered,amicroscopic statistical analysis of both the first failure and ultimate failure of hybrids is per-formed.The variations of the first failure strain,the ultimate failure strain and the hybrid effectas the interfacial shear strength are obtained quantitatively.The concept of the hybrid effect forstrains has been clarified.The present results are compared with available experiment data anda reasonable agreement is found between the analytical predictions and the experimental results.
