Continuum/finite element modeling of carbon nanotube-reinforced polymers

Nam Vu-Bac, Timon Rabczuk, Xiaoying Zhuang

Research output: Chapter in Book/Report/Conference proceedingChapter

6 Citations (Scopus)

Abstract

This chapter provides an overview mainly on continuum/finite element models for carbon nanotube-reinforced polymer (CNRPs). Continuum approaches of CNRPs can be modeled at different length scales, such as the microscale, mesoscale, or macroscale. At the macroscale, it is well known that the detailed structure of the polymer matrix and the CNTs cannot be modeled explicitly due to the high computational costs. Therefore, the CNRP is homogenized as a continuum or structural element. At the meso-and microscales, the constituents and structures of the composite are modeled explicitly. The realistic predictions of the mechanical behavior of CNRPs must take into account the interface and interphase zones between the polymer matrix and the carbon nanotubes. These include capturing the failure mechanisms of CNRPs, which can be categorized into fiber cracking, matrix cracking, and delamination. Many studies in previous literature focus on nonbonded van der Waals interactions; though more advanced models recently consider also covalent bonds between the polymer and carbon nanotube.

Original languageEnglish
Title of host publicationCarbon Nanotube-Reinforced Polymers
Subtitle of host publicationFrom Nanoscale to Macroscale
PublisherElsevier Inc.
Pages385-409
Number of pages25
ISBN (Electronic)9780323482226
ISBN (Print)9780323482219
DOIs
Publication statusPublished - 2018

Bibliographical note

Publisher Copyright:
© 2018 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

Keywords

  • Carbon nanotube-reinforced polymers
  • Continuum/finite element modeling
  • Multiscale modeling

ASJC Scopus subject areas

  • General Chemistry

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