A simple model for determining the strength of polymer halloysite nanotube systems

Abstract

A limited number of models are available for determining the mechanical performance of halloysite-nanotube-(HNT)-reinforced samples. The available models cannot estimate the properties of HNT-based nanocomposites because they ignore the interphase term. In this work, a simple model for determining the strength of HNT-based nanocomposites is developed by focusing on the interphase region. The proposed model uses HNT concentration and HNT radius, in addition to the depth and strength of the interphase region. Numerous experimental data for real examples and parametric investigations are used to examine the predictions of the proposed model. All predictions agree well with the experimental data at various HNT concentrations. HNT radius adversely affects the nanocomposite's strength, whereas interphase depth, interphase strength, and HNT volume fraction positively affect the strength of system. These observations establish that thinner HNTs and a thicker and stronger interphase, as well as a higher HNT concentration, lead to a stronger nanocomposite.