Evaluation of effective mechanical properties of nanocomposites reinforced with multiwalled carbon nanotube

AbstractEffective mechanical properties of nanocomposites reinforced with multiwalled carbon nanotubes (MWCNTs) have been determined using Finite Element Analysis (FEA). The effects of several parameters on nanocomposite effective mechanical properties are investigated. First, FEA models are created consisting of MWCNTs with different spring constants to investigate the effects of the interlayer van der Waals forces. Next, the reinforcing efficiency of MWCNTs in different matrices is investigated using models consisting of matrices with different moduli of elasticity. In addition, the effects of MWCNT volume fraction are investigated. Finally, models were created to determine effective mechanical properties of nanocomposites reinforced with Single-Walled Carbon Nanotubes (SWCNTs). Comparison of the results suggests that SWCNTs are more efficient in strengthening the matrix than MWCNTs. Also, Young’s modulus prediction for multiwalled carbon nanotube in a propylene matrix is compared to experimental data i...