16 - Multiscale Continuum Modeling of Carbon Nanotube–Reinforced Polymers

Abstract

Optimization of carbon nanotube/polymer nanocomposites and fiber composites requires an extensive experimental campaign combining mechanical, thermal, and electrical tests with microscopy investigations. This campaign could be disburdened by using efficient design tools capable of predicting the mechanical properties of the nanoreinforced materials as functions of manufacturing and material parameters. This chapter presents a two-scale continuum model developed for predicting the effective Young’s moduli and yield strengths of nanocomposites by accounting the effect of nanotube waviness, nanotube agglomeration, and nanotube/polymer interphase.