Modeling of Modulus of elasticity of Nano-Composite Materials: Review and Evaluation

Abstract

To improve the mechanical properties of polymer, the mineral particles are added to produce composite material. For example, the mineral particles are added to polymer to improve the stiffness of polymer because of the higher stiffness of mineral particles. When the micron-sized particles are used in composite usually cause a reduction in impact resistance. On the other hand, adding the nano scale minerals leads to improve the impact and wear properties of the composite materials (nanocomposites). Several factors effect on the mechanical properties of nanocomposites like adhesion between the polymer and nanoparticles. If the interfacial deboning of particles from the matrix decreases, the tensile strength of the composite could be reduced.In this article, the micromechanical models dealing with calculating modulus of elasticity of nanocomposite are reviewed and discussed using the comparison between the results of the micromechanical models with experimental data factors effect on the modulus of elasticity of nanocomposite are matrix and filler elastic modulus, volume fraction of filler, aspect ratio of filler, maximum volumetric packing and the thickness and elastic modulus of interphone surrounding the nanoparticles and these factors are studied in each mechanical models.