Finite element analysis of the effect of interlayer on interfacial stress transfer in layered graphene nanocomposites

Abstract

Understanding the roles of interlayers in reinforcement efficiencies by layered graphene is very important in order to produce strong and light graphene based nanocomposites. The present paper uses the finite element method to evaluate the interfacial strain transfers and reinforcement efficiencies in layered graphene-polymer composites. Results indicate that the presence of compliant interlayers in layered graphene plays significant roles in the transfers of strain/stress from matrix to graphene and subsequently the reinforcement effectiveness of layered graphene. In general, the magnitude of shear strain transferred onto the rigid graphene decreases as the thickness of the interlayer increases. This trend becomes insignificant as the graphene becomes sufficiently large (s>25,000). The shear strain at the interface of graphene-matrix is also greatly influenced by the interlayer modulus. A stiffer interlayer would result in a higher shear strain transferred on the graphene. The performance of the interlayers is further affected by the property of the composite and the architecture of the layered graphene stack. If a composite contains more graphene phase, the efficiency of reinforcement by a layered graphene becomes improved. If a graphene stack contains more interlayers, the effectiveness of reinforcement at the edges of the graphene becomes negatively affected.