Simulation of tensile modulus of polymer carbon nanotubes nanocomposites in the case of incomplete interfacial bonding between polymer matrix and carbon nanotubes by critical interfacial parameters

Abstract

In this paper, we correlate the minimum length of carbon nanotubes (CNTs) vital for operative stress transferring between polymer matrix and nanoparticles (Lc) to the critical interfacial shear modulus between polymer and CNTs (Gc) and the interfacial shear modulus (Gi) in the case of imperfect interfacial adhesion between polymer and carbon nanotubes (CNTs). Both “Gc” and “Gi” define the effective aspect ratio and volume fraction of CNTs in nanocomposites. Moreover, the developed Hui-Shia model investigates the roles of “Lc”, “Gc” and “Gi” in the tensile modulus of nanocomposites. The impacts of various parameters on the “Lc” and effective terms are highlighted. Furthermore, the experimental results of modulus for several samples and the influences of all parameters on the modulus evaluate the developed model. The accurate agreement between experimental and theoretical results as well as the correct roles of all parameters in the modulus supports the current approach. There is a direct relationship between the modulus of nanocomposites and “Lc”. Low “Gc” and high “Gi” as well as thin and long CNTs positively control the “Lc” and effective terms producing a high modulus for nanocomposites.