Numerical simulation of the tensile modulus of nanoclay‐filled polymer composites

• DOI: 10.1002/polb.20112
• Publication Date: 2004-05-11T19:00:38Z
• Authors: Linjie Zhu; K.A. Narh
• Keywords: 02 engineering and technology; 0210 nano-technology

Abstract A numerical simulation model that incorporates three phases, polymer matrix, interlayer, and clay platelet, was developed to predict the tensile modulus of nanoclay‐filled composites. The interlayer introduced account for fact mechanical properties near surface are different from those matrix. effects interlayers, structure clusters, platelet distributions upon elasticity nanocomposites, were studied. results show a decrease in modulus, as well an increase thickness, would nanocomposites. Furthermore, it found maximum strain, located end increases significantly with decreasing modulus. distribution platelets composite interpreted terms two parameters, overlap length, lateral distance between platelets. Comparison experimental data literature has confirmed reliability method used present study. © 2004 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Polym Sci Part B: Phys 42: 2391–2406,