A two-step technique established by simple models to estimate the tensile strength of halloysite nanotubes-filled nanocomposites

Abstract

The limited quantity of modeling papers on halloysite nanotubes (HNT)-reinforced nanocomposites restricts the optimization of properties for multifunctional applications. In this paper, we develop a two-step technique to approximate the tensile strength for this category of materials. At the first stage, HNT and surrounding interphase are assumed as pseudoparticles and their strength is estimated by Kelly-Tyson approach. At the second step, a developed model predicts the strength of polymer nanocomposites containing polymer medium and pseusoparticles. Many experimental records of several examples and examinations of whole parameters evaluate the advanced technique. The experimental results and parametric checks demonstrate the desirable proofs approving the current methodology. Both interfacial shear strength and interphase strength straightly handle the strength of nanocomposites. The calculations reveal that the dimensions of HNT and interphase section can change the strength of HNT-reinforced samples by 280%. Nevertheless, the variations of HNT aspect ratio and polymer medium strength may improve the nanocomposite's strength by 470%. Additionally, high aspect ratio of HNT and poor polymer host are desirable for the strength of nanocomposites, while thick and short HNT (low aspect ratio < 33) cannot strengthen the polymer medium.