Finite Element Investigation of the Geometrical Parameters of Waviness Carbon Nanotube on Directional Young’s and Shear Elastic Modulus of Polymer Nanocomposites

Abstract

The present study focuses on the characterization of directional mechanical properties of the polymer matrix reinforced with waviness carbon nanotubes (CNTs) by the finite element method. Young’s and shear elastic modulus in three dimensions have been investigated for representative volume element including straight and waviness (5,5) and (7,7) CNTs with considering the interfacial interaction. These mechanical properties with the alteration of the different parameters such as the number of curves of a CNT, diameter, and length to diameter ratio (L/ D) have been evaluated. The results show that the number of curves, and overall assuming a CNT in its natural state (more curves), significantly impact the longitudinal and directional elastic modulus of nanocomposites. Most outcomes confirm that the transverse Young's and shear elastic modulus of nanocomposites grow and reduce by adding the number of curves and the L/D ratio of CNTs, correspondingly. In addition, the opposite effect is observed in the longitudinal direction for Young’s modulus. © 2022, The Institution of Engineers (India).