Numerical prediction of elastic properties of carbon nanotube reinforced composites using multi-scale method

The main goal of this research is study on longitudinal elastic modulus of nanocomposites reinforced with Zigzag and Armchair carbon nanotubes in different volume fractions and aspect ratios with finite element simulation. A three-phase volumetric element was used to model the behavior of the nanocomposite and used nonlinear spring strain elements to model the interfacial phase interface and the effective force between the nanotube and the resin based on the Lenard-Jones potential. After evaluation and validation of the model, the elastic modulus and Poisson coefficient were extracted from nanocomposites reinforced with Zigzag and Armchair carbon nanotubes in different volume fractions and aspect ratios. By increasing the nanotube volume fraction and aspect ratio, the amount of the elastic modulus of the composite increases. In the same aspect ratio and volume fraction, the modulus of elastic composites reinforced with armchair nanotubes and the Poisson coefficient of composites reinforced with zigzag nanotubes is higher. Also, the results of the study showed that the elastic modulus of the composite is independent of the elastic modulus of intermediate phase.