Effect of CNT Waviness on the Elastic Modulus of Carbon Nanotube Reinforced Polymer Composites

摘要

Carbon nanotubes (CNTs) are the filler materials of nanoscale dimensions, whichwhen added to the polymer matrix, form a strong yet light-weight multifunctionalcomposite materials. Before using them effectively and confidently in the aerospaceindustry, it is important to completely determine their mechanical properties. Previousstudies found these properties to be significantly influenced by the waviness of CNTsembedded in the epoxy matrix.In this study, we have developed a unique Python algorithm that is employed toconstruct the stochastic three-dimensional finite element models, which incorporates theCNT waviness as a variable. Random normal and uniform random distributions areassumed for waviness and orientation angles of the dispersed CNTs, respectively. Fourseparate finite element models with maximum CNT waviness angles of 0°, 25°, & 50°are generated for CNT volume fraction of 0.5%. Thereafter, the elastic constants areevaluated and compared for each case.A significant decrease in the properties is observed as the maximum allowablewaviness angle of the embedded CNTs in the epoxy is increased. These results suggestthat CNT waviness plays a key role in deciding the elastic properties of the CNT basedcomposites.