Nanocomposite Plates Research Articles

Influence of ZrB2 Nanoparticles on Microstructure and Mechanical Properties of Ni-Co Coating

To improve the service life of continuous casting crystallizer, the NiCo-ZrB2 coating was prepared using nanocomposite plating technology. Uniformly dispersed nano-ZrB2 particles significantly enhanced the hardness and wear resistance of the coating. Upon testing, the hardness of the coating exceeded 700 HV, with a friction coefficient below 0.2, which was superior to those of pure NiCo or other nanocomposite NiCo coatings reported previously. Microscopic analysis revealed that the addition of dispersants and ultrasonic vibration treatment had facilitated the homogeneous distribution of nano-ZrB2 within the matrix, thereby promoting the formation of numerous nano-twins. Due to dispersion strengthening, fine grain strengthening, and twinning strengthening, the wear behavior of the coating changed from fatigue wear to abrasive wear, and the wear volume was significantly reduced by 82%. The above findings could potentially extend the service life of the coating, reduce the cost of steel loss per ton, and have broad application prospects in other surface protection fields.

Free Vibration and Buckling Analyses of Functionally Graded Plates With Graphene Platelets Reinforcement

Abstract While existing research has focused on using graphene platelets (GPLs) as reinforcement for homogeneous matrices, this study proposes a new nanocomposite for plate structures consisting of GPLs incorporated into a conventional functionally graded matrix with the aim of enhancing their overall stiffness. The performance of such plates is evaluated via free vibration and buckling analyses in the present study. Note that the matrix phase is graded continuously with the power law distribution across the plate's thickness, whereas various GPL dispersion patterns along the thickness are studied. The material properties of the typical functionally graded matrix are determined by the rule of mixture, and then those of the composite are estimated by the modified Halpin–Tsai model as well as the rule of mixture. Based on Hamilton's principle and the novel four-unknown refined plate theory (RPT4), the governing equations of the plate are developed. The Navier-type solution scheme is then adopted to get the critical buckling load and natural frequency of the nanocomposite plate. Numerical findings are examined to evaluate the novel nanocomposite plate model, and a parametric study is also conducted. In addition, high-accurate results are provided via the Navier-type solution here as benchmark solutions for further studies on functionally graded material structures reinforced by GPLs.

The application of novel shear deformation theory and nonlocal elasticity theory to study the mechanical response of composite nanoplates

The use of composite structures, which have many layers of materials, has become more prevalent in the field of engineering. One of the advantages of this approach is its ability to use the inherent strengths of the constituent materials, resulting in a substantial increase in their load-bearing capability. Hence, this research represents the pioneering investigation into the static bending and free vibration characteristics of composite nanoplates including several layers of materials, whereby the material layers are interconnected via intricate profiles characterized by square wave and sine waveforms. The purpose of this endeavor is to fully capitalize on the benefits of attending courses in order to enhance practical working efficiency. This study also incorporates the use of two innovative third-order shear deformation theories. Simultaneously, considering the negligible size impact facilitated by the nonlocal theory, the mathematical formulations and equilibrium equations are derived using the Hamilton principle. The issue has been addressed using a four-node element with six degrees of freedom per node. One novel aspect of this study is its consideration of the impact of initial shape imperfections in various manifestations. Additionally, the elastic foundation incorporates characteristics that exhibit spatial variation. This statement provides a somewhat more accurate depiction of the behavior shown by actual structures. The numerical findings have been meticulously computed and thoroughly examined. Notably, it is possible to determine the optimal number of wavelengths in the profile to enhance the load-bearing capability of the structure. The findings derived from this study have significant value in informing the design of operational frameworks in practical settings.

Free vibration and transient response of initially compressed CNT-reinforced composite plates

This paper investigates the linear free vibration and nonlinear transient response of carbon nanotube (CNT)-reinforced composite plates subjected to pre-existent compressive load in thermal environments. CNTs are reinforced into matrix according to uniform and functionally graded distributions. The properties of constitutive materials are assumed to be temperature-dependent while the effective properties of nanocomposite are determined using an extended rule of mixture. Governing equations are established within the framework of classical plate theory incorporating von Kármán nonlinearity and initial geometrical imperfection. Analytical solutions of deflection and stress function are assumed to satisfy simply supported boundary conditions, and Galerkin method is applied to obtain a time differential equation including both quadratic and cubic nonlinear terms. Fourth-order Runge–Kutta numerical integration scheme is employed to determine dynamical deflection-time response of nanocomposite plates. Numerical analyses are presented to consider the influences of CNT volume fraction, CNT distribution, initial compressive load, geometrical imperfection, elevated temperature and plate geometry on the natural frequencies and nonlinear dynamical response of nanocomposite plates. The study reveals that the natural frequency and dynamical deflection are strongly decreased and increased when initial compressive load is increased, respectively. Numerical results also find that the natural frequencies are enhanced and dynamical deflection is dropped as a result of increase in volume percentage of CNTs, respectively.

Multiscale modeling of microstructural and hygrothermal effects on vibrations of CNT-enhanced fiber-reinforced polymer composites

This work presents a multi-scale analytical and computational approach designed to predict the hygro-thermo-mechanical vibrational response of laminated composite structures reinforced with multi-walled carbon nanotubes (MWCNTs). Employing the modified Halpin-Tsai model, this study estimates the elastic properties of the MWCNT-enhanced epoxy matrix, incorporating the impacts of MWCNT agglomeration, orientation, waviness, and size-dependent characteristics. Additionally, the Chamis micromechanical model is utilized to ascertain the independent elastic constants of the nanocomposite lamina, considering environmental variables such as temperature and humidity. Subsequent analysis involves the determination of natural frequencies for both pristine and MWCNT-integrated laminated composite structures via the Finite Element Method (FEM), addressing various design-related parameters. This investigation further explores the macroscopic influences of MWCNT incorporation, boundary condition and layup scheme, along with the temperature, moisture content, and the nanoscopic impact of MWCNTs on the natural frequencies of laminated composite plates. The obtained results of the proposed multiscale modeling are compared with experimental and theoretical observations. It has been demonstrated that while the incorporation of carbon nanotubes (CNTs) can enhance the mechanical properties of nanocomposite laminae, the natural frequencies of these nanocomposite plates are adversely affected by variations in temperature and moisture content. Furthermore, the findings indicate that the microstructural characteristics of CNTs play a crucial role in determining the efficacy of the reinforcement phenomenon. The developed multi-scale methodological framework offers significant potential for the design and optimization of MWCNT-based composite structures across diverse industries, including automotive and aerospace sectors.

Free vibration analysis of functionally graded composite plates reinforced with linearly and nonlinearly distributed carbon nanotubes in hygrothermal environments

This article presents a novel investigation of the free vibration behavior of functionally graded carbon nanotube-reinforced composite (FG-CNTRC) plates under hygrothermal environments. It explores both uniform and non-uniform (functionally graded) distributions of CNTs across the plate thickness for the first time. The effective material properties of the CNTRC, considering temperature and moisture dependence, are determined using the extended rule of mixture. First-order shear deformation theory (FSDT) is employed to derive the governing equations incorporating hygro-elastic and thermo-elastic relations. These equations are solved using the finite element method. A validation study verifies the accuracy of the employed approaches. Subsequently, a comprehensive parametric study investigates the influence of plate geometry (length-to-width and width-to-thickness ratios), CNTs volume fraction, boundary conditions, linear and non-linear CNTs distributions, and hygrothermal environments on the free vibration behavior of polymeric nanocomposite plates reinforced with CNTs fillers is conducted. The results reveal that the increase in temperature and moisture leads to a decrease in the effective stiffness of the FG-CNTRC plates.

Application of bilateral iterative displacement control method to nonlinear free vibration analysis of dual-FG nanocomposite circular plates

This paper studies the geometrically nonlinear free vibration of a novel nanocomposite circular plate. The matrix of the nanocomposite structure is made of functionally graded (FG) polymer, and the distribution of graphene platelets (GPLs) as the reinforcement is assumed based on the five various linear FG models. Therefore, this novel nanocomposite is called dual-FG. The Voigt rule of mixture and Halpin-Tsai method are employed to homogenize FG polymer, and distribution of the GPLs within the matrix, respectively. Moreover, the whole structure is fixed on a nonlinear Kerr elastic foundation. The displacements of the plate are estimated by means of the first-order shear deformation theory (FSDT). Von-Kármán type of geometrically nonlinear relations expresses the plate's strains. The generalized differential quadrature (GDQ) technique, bilateral iterative displacement control method (BIDCM), and the weighted residual Galerkin procedure are implemented to extract the free vibration characteristics of the structure. The developed structure is validated with those reported in the open literature. A comprehensive parametric study is conducted to illustrate the effect of various parameters on the dynamic response of the dual-FG nanocomposite circular plate. It will be observed that the influence of the volume fraction and distribution model of GPL is more pronounced on the vibration frequency in the FG matrix. It was noted that the volume fraction of graphene platelets (GPL) and the power-law index of the matrix exhibit a direct and inverse relationship, respectively, with the natural frequency of the structure. Furthermore, the V-GPL model exhibits the highest percentage growth in nonlinear frequencies, while the Λ-GPL model shows the least growth. This observation is particularly pronounced for plates with hinged boundary conditions.

3D wave dispersion analysis of graphene platelet-reinforced ultra-stiff double functionally graded nanocomposite sandwich plates with metamaterial honeycomb core layer

This research addresses the three-dimensional thermomechanical wave propagation behavior in sandwich composite nanoplates with a metamaterial honeycomb core layer and double functionally graded (FG) ultra-stiff surface layers. Due to its potential for high-temperature applications, pure nickel (Ni) is preferred for the honeycomb core layer, and an Al2O3/Ni ceramic-metal matrix is preferred for the surface layers. The functional distribution of graphene platelets (GPLs) in three different patterns, Type-U, Type-X, and Type-O, in the metal-ceramic matrix with a power law distribution provides double-FG properties to the surface layers. The mechanical and thermal material characteristics of the core and surface layers, as well as the reinforcing GPLs, are temperature-dependent. The pattern of temperature variation over the plate thickness is considered to be nonlinear. The sandwich nanoplate’s motion equations are obtained by combining the sinusoidal higher-order shear deformation theory (SHSDT) with nonlocal integral elasticity and strain gradient elasticity theories. The wave equations are established by using Hamilton’s principle. Parametric simulations and graphical representations are performed to analyze the effects of honeycomb size variables, wave number, the power law index, the GPL distribution pattern, the GPL weight ratio, and the temperature rise on three-dimensional wave propagation in an ultra-stiff sandwich plate. The results of the analysis reveal that the 3D wave propagation of the sandwich nanoplate can be significantly modified or tuned depending on the desired parameters and conditions. Thus, the proposed sandwich structure is expected to provide essential contributions to radar/sonar stealth applications in air, space, and submarine vehicles in high or low-temperature environments, protection of microelectromechanical devices from high noise and vibration, soft robotics applications, and wearable health and protective equipment applications.

Ni-B-PTFE Nanocomposite Co-Deposition on the Surface of 2A12 Aluminum Alloy.

The spinning cup, a crucial component of textile equipment, relies heavily on 2A12 aluminum alloy as its primary raw material. Commonly, electroplating and chemical nickel-phosphorus (Ni-P) plating are employed to improve the surface characteristics of the object. Nevertheless, due to the growing expectations for the performance of aluminum alloys, the hardness and wear resistance of Ni-P coatings are no longer sufficient to fulfill industry standards. This study primarily focuses on the synthesis of Ni-B-PTFE nanocomposite chemical plating and its effectiveness when applied to the surface of 2A12 aluminum alloy. We examine the impact of the composition of the plating solution, process parameters, and various other factors on the pace at which the coating is deposited, the hardness of the surface, and other indicators of the coating. The research findings indicate that the composite co-deposited coating achieves its optimal surface morphology when the following conditions are met: a nickel chloride concentration of 30 g/L, an ethylenediamine concentration of 70 mL, a sodium borohydride concentration of 0.6 g/L, a sodium hydroxide concentration of 90 g/L, a lead nitrate concentration of 30 mL, a pH value of 12, a temperature of 90 °C, and a PTFE concentration of 10 mL/L. The coating exhibits consistency, density, a smooth surface, and an absence of noticeable pores or fissures. The composite co-deposited coating exhibits a surface hardness of 1109 HV0.1, which significantly surpasses the substrate's hardness of 232.38 HV0.1. The Ni-B-PTFE composite coating exhibits an average friction coefficient of around 0.12. It has a scratch width of 855.18 μm and a wear mass of 0.05 mg. This coating demonstrates superior wear resistance when compared to Ni-B coatings. The Ni-B-PTFE composite coating specimen exhibits a self-corrosion potential of -6.195 V and a corrosion current density of 7.81 × 10-7 A/cm2, which is the lowest recorded. This enhances its corrosion resistance compared to Ni-B coatings.

Mechanical instabilities of nano-composite plates using elasticity theories

Mechanical instabilities of nano-composite plates using elasticity theories

Free vibration analysis of nanocomposite plate in contact with fluid using a novel quasi-3D shear deformation theory and artificial neural network

This article presents an analytical approach leveraging a novel quasi-three-dimensional shear deformation theory to analyze the free vibration response of functionally graded graphene platelet-reinforced composite (FG-GPLRC) plates in a liquid medium. The study meticulously determines material properties using the Halpin-Tsai micromechanical model, offering a thorough characterization of these advanced nanocomposite structures. Differential motion equations, incorporating transverse shear and normal stresses, are derived via Hamilton’s principle. The natural frequencies of the nanocomposite plates are computed using Galerkin’s method and validated against published results, affirming their accuracy and reliability. The key innovation of this research is introducing a new trigonometric shape function, which exhibits superior precision compared to previously proposed shape functions and existing theories. Furthermore, an artificial neural network (ANN) model is developed to train the computed results, enabling precise prediction of the natural frequencies without further computational runs. The Bayesian Regularization algorithm, implemented in Matlab, is utilized for this purpose. Across different GPLs patterns and varying input parameters, the error percentage between the ANN model predictions and the results from the Galerkin’s method is consistently low, often below 0.1%. The ANN model demonstrates robust generalization by effectively predicting outcomes with input data beyond its training range. Additionally, it provides immediate computational results, eliminating the delays of traditional methods. The article also examines the effects of various factors, including material characteristics, geometric parameters, and the fluid medium, on the free vibration behavior of FG-GPLRC plates.

Influence of non-uniform elastic foundations on free vibration behavior of nanocomposite plates interacting with a fluid environment based on a novel shear deformation theory

Influence of non-uniform elastic foundations on free vibration behavior of nanocomposite plates interacting with a fluid environment based on a novel shear deformation theory

Effects of non-uniformity in thickness and volume fraction of nanofillers on the flutter characteristics of nanocomposite cantilever trapezoidal plates

The aim of this work is to investigate the flutter characteristics of nanocomposite cantilever trapezoidal plates with non-uniform thickness enriched with either carbon nanotubes (CNTs), graphene nanoplatelets (GNPs), or graphene oxide powders (GOPs) which are distributed functionally graded (FG) in the axial direction. It is assumed that the thickness of the plate and the volume fraction of the nanofillers vary in one direction from the wider clamped edge of the plate to the outer narrower free one. The modeling of the plate is done using the first-order shear deformation theory (FSDT) and the aerodynamic pressure generated by the aerodynamic pressure is modeled using the linear approximation of the piston theory. The material properties of the plate are calculated using the mixing rule (ROM) and the Halpin–Tsai model. The governing equations and boundary conditions at the clamped and free edges of the plate are derived via Hamilton’s principle. An approximate solution is applied using the differential quadrature method (DQM) to calculate the natural frequencies and the damping ratios of the plate. Numerical examples show that it is possible to find an optimal thickness variation profile that provides the greatest aeroelastic stability. It is concluded that by considering the same value for the mass fractions of the nanofillers, the highest aeroelastic stability can be attained by utilizing the GNPs as the reinforcers. It is found that to attain further improvement in aeroelastic stability, most nanofillers should be distributed near the clamped edge and away from the outer free edge.

A Nonlocal Numerical Solution Based on Carrera Unified Formulation for Static and Free Vibration Analysis of Laminated Composite Nanoplate

This paper presents an advanced numerical model based on Carrera unified formulation (CUF) and isogeometric analysis (IGA), the size-dependent finite element unified formulation model is proposed to investigate the static bending and free vibration of laminated composite nano-plate. The CUF type of trigonometric function with nine degrees of freedom is used to simulate the displacement fields of laminated nano-plate. The size effect of nano-plate structures is included through the Eringen’s nonlocal elastic theory. The size-dependent governing equations for static bending and free vibration of laminated are established based on CUF, IGA and nonlocal theory. The correctness of the presented numerical model is verified by comparison with existing solutions. Furthermore, with the addition of a nonlocal effect, the plate’s stiffness decreases correlating to an increase in nonlocal parameter. Through different calculations, the changes in the static and free vibration responses of laminated composite nano-plate are effected by nonlocal parameter, plate length-to-thickness ratio, and boundary conditions including Young’s modulus ratio.

Utilizing optimal physics-informed neural networks for dynamical analysis of nanocomposite one-variable edge plates

This study presents an innovative Physics-Informed Neural Network (PINN) approach designed to predict the dynamic responses of the One-Variable Edge Plate (OVEP), a unique plate structure characterized by an edge defined by arbitrary mathematical functions. The OVEP is constructed from a nanocomposite material reinforced with graphene nanoplatelets. Utilizing an optimized PINN pipeline, this research successfully predicts the vibration characteristics of the OVEP, encompassing linear, nonlinear vibrations, and beating phenomena. The study also demonstrates that the optimal PINN outperforms conventional neural network in terms of stability, accuracy (achieving above 99% accuracy), and efficiency in predicting long-duration vibrations. Additionally, the computational time required for generating testing results is notably diminished compared to traditional partial differential equation (PDE) solvers (reduced by about 3 to 12 times). To demonstrate model robustness, synthetic noise is intentionally introduced into the training data. The results not only enhance our understanding of the complex dynamics of the OVEP but also highlight the effectiveness of the proposed PINN framework in capturing and forecasting the dynamic behaviors of advanced plate structures. This research presents a promising potential for addressing dynamic problems in the fields of aerospace, civil, and mechanical engineering.

Two-dimensional copper vanadate intercalated vanadium carbide MXene nanoplates as a high-performance cathode for aqueous Zn-ion batteries

Cathode materials play a crucial role in the energy-storage performances of zinc ion battery (ZIB). In this paper, the two-dimensional vanadium carbide MXene (V2C-MXene) nanoplates intercalated by Cu3V2O7(OH)2·2 H2O (CuVO) are synthesized. The intercalation of CuVO in the interlayers of V2C-MXene overcomes self-aggregation of CuVO and improves its structural stability. Meanwhile, the enlarged interlayer spacing of highly conductive V2C-MXene upgrades the electron transfer within the composite. As the cathode electrode of ZIB, the CuVO intercalated V2C-MXene (CuVO@V2C-MXene) battery shows capacity as high as 551.8 mAh g−1 when discharged at 0.5 A g−1. The capacity retention rate reaches 91.8% after 3000 cycles at high current density of 6.0 A g−1. As a comparison, the CuVO//Zn battery has capacity only 193.3 mAh g−1 at 0.5 A g−1, with the capacity retention of just 43.1% after 3000 cycles at 6.0 A g−1. Simultaneously, the CuVO@V2C-MXene//Zn illustrates greatly improved rate capability compared with CuVO//Zn. The CuVO@V2C-MXene composite nanoplates in this work show promise in fabrication of high capacity metal ion batteries.

Utilization of response surface methodology to optimize the mechanical behaviour of flax/nano TiO2/Epoxy based hybrid composites under liquid nitrogen environment

Linum usitatissimum commonly known as flax fibers, emerges as a promising reinforcement phase for artificial polymer resins, boasting ecological benefits, low density, and easy accessibility. However, the mechanical behavior of such composites hinges crucially on factors such as fiber mat thickness, nanoTiO2 filler content, and the application of cryogenic treatment. Addressing this complex interplay, this study employs a hand lay-up technique for composite construction, subjecting nanocomposite plates to the challenging liquid nitrogen conditions at 77 K post-manufacture. Recognizing the need for an optimized approach, Response Surface Methodology (RSM) based on Box-Benhken designs is employed to enhance the mixing features of linum usitatissimum polymer composites. The study calculates anticipated mechanical strength values through rigorous ANOVA inferential analysis, uncovering the pivotal roles played by fiber mat thickness, nanofiller content, and cryogenic treatment in the two feature interactions (2FI) model components. The methodology proves robust with high R2 values (0.9670 for tensile, 0.9845 for flexural, and 0.9670 for interlaminar shear strength) consistently aligning with experimental findings. The study culminates in identifying optimized parameters for maximal mechanical properties—300 gsm flax fiber thickness, 5 wt.% nano TiO2 concentration, and a 15-min cryogenic treatment—a result that advances our understanding of fundamental factors influencing composite performance and provides practical guidelines for applications in fields requiring superior mechanical strength in challenging environments.

Linear and Nonlinear Dynamics Responses of an Axially Moving Laminated Composite Plate-Reinforced with Graphene Nanoplatelets

The subharmonic resonances of an axially moving graphene-reinforced laminated composite plate are studied based on the Galerkin and multiscale methods. Graphene nanoplatelets (GPLs) are added into matrix material which acts as the basic layer of the plate, and a graphene-reinforced nanocomposite plate is thus obtained. Different GPL distribution patterns in the laminated plate are considered. The Halpin–Tsai model is selected to predict the physical properties of the nanocomposite. Hamilton’s principle is utilized to conduct the dynamic modeling of the plate and the von Kármán deformation theory is used. The velocity is assumed to be a combination of constant and harmonically varied velocities. The natural frequencies of the linear system with constant velocity can be obtained using the eigenvalues of the coefficient matrix of the ordinary differential equations after the governing partial differential equations of motion are discretized through the Galerkin method. The instability regions of the linear system and the amplitude–frequency relations of the nonlinear system considering the harmonically varied velocity are obtained based on the multiscale analysis. The effect of GPL reinforcement on the subharmonic resonances of the linear and nonlinear systems is analyzed in detail.

Effect of nano-Al2O3 particle addition on Co–P–xAl2O3 nanocomposite plating electroplated on X65 steel

PurposeThe purpose of this study is to reveal the effect of nano-Al2O3 particle addition on the nucleation/growth kinetics, microhardness, wear resistance and corrosion resistance of Co–P–xAl2O3 nanocomposite plating.Design/methodology/approachThe kinetics and properties of Co–P–xAl2O3 nanocomposite plating prepared by electroplating were investigated by electrochemical measurements, scanning electron microscopy, X-ray diffraction, X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy, Vickers microhardness measurement, SRV5 friction and wear tester and atomic force microscopy.FindingsA 12 g/L nano-Al2O3 addition in the plating solution can transform the nucleation/growth kinetics of the plating from the 3D progressive model to the 3D instantaneous model. The microhardness of the plating increased with the increase of nano-Al2O3 content in plating. The wear resistance of the plating did not adhere strictly to Archard’s law. An even and denser corrosion product film was generated due to the finer grains, with a high corrosion resistance.Originality/valueThe effect of different nano-Al2O3 addition on the nucleation/growth kinetics and properties of Co–P–xAl2O3 nanocomposite plating was investigated, and an anticorrosion mechanism of Co–P–xAl2O3 nanocomposite plating was proposed.

Vibration analysis of functionally graded carbon nanotubes reinforced composite nanoplates

This work presents the analytical analysis for free linear vibration behavior of functionally graded-carbon nanotubes reinforced composite (FG-CNTRC) nanoplates in the framework of nonlocal strain gradient theory (NSGT) and the first-order shear deformation plate theory (FSDPT). The nanoplate is considered made of a mixture of an isotropic polymer matrix and reinforced carbon nanotubes (CNTs). Four different distributions of CNTs are examined including uniformly distributed and FG reinforcements (FG-O, FG-X, and FG-V). The governing equations of motion are established based on the Hamilton’s principle. The closed-form analytical solution for the natural frequency of FG-CNTRC nanoplates with simply supported all edges is carried out by using the Navier-type solution. The impact of some key parameters on the natural frequencies of FG-CNTRC nanoplates is also studied and discussed. The result shows that FG-CNTRC nanoplates reveal the softening- or hardening-stiffness effects depending on the relationship between the nonlocal parameter and the material length scale parameter. The aspect ratios of FG-CNTRC nanoplates, the volume fraction, and the distribution pattern of CNTs have also an important impact on the vibration behavior of FG-CNTRC nanoplates.