Atomistic-based continuum representation of the effective properties of nano-reinforced epoxies

In this paper, an atomistic-based representative volume element (RVE) is developed to characterize the behavior of carbon nanotube (CNT) reinforced amorphous epoxies. The RVE consists of the carbon nanotube, the surrounding epoxy matrix, and the CNT/epoxy interface. An atomistic-based continuum repr...

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Bibliographic Details
Published in:International journal of solids and structures 2010-06, Vol.47 (13), p.1723-1736
Main Authors: Meguid, S.A., Wernik, J.M., Cheng, Z.Q.
Format: Article
Language:English
Subjects:
Adhesives
Applied sciences
Atomistic-based continuum
Carbon nanotubes
Composites
Continuums
Exact sciences and technology
Fibers
Forms of application and semi-finished materials
Fundamental areas of phenomenology (including applications)
Nano-reinforced epoxies
Nanocomposites
Nanomaterials
Nanostructure
Physics
Polymer industry, paints, wood
Representations
Representative volume element
Solid mechanics
Static elasticity (thermoelasticity...)
Structural and continuum mechanics
Technology of polymers
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Summary:In this paper, an atomistic-based representative volume element (RVE) is developed to characterize the behavior of carbon nanotube (CNT) reinforced amorphous epoxies. The RVE consists of the carbon nanotube, the surrounding epoxy matrix, and the CNT/epoxy interface. An atomistic-based continuum representation is adopted throughout all the components of the RVE. By equating the associated strain energies under identical loading conditions, we were able to homogenize the RVE into a representative fiber. The homogenized RVE was then employed in a micromechanical analysis to predict the effective properties of the newly developed CNT-reinforced amorphous epoxy. Numerical examples show that the effect of volume fraction, orientation, and aspect ratio of the continuous fibres on the properties of the CNT-reinforced epoxy adhesives can be significant. These results have a direct bearing on the design and development of nano-tailored adhesives for use in structural adhesive bonds.
ISSN:0020-7683
1879-2146
DOI:10.1016/j.ijsolstr.2010.03.009