A predictive model towards understanding the effect of reinforcement agglomeration on the stiffness of nanocomposites

Abstract

Nanocomposite technologies can be significantly enhanced through a careful exploration of the effects of agglomerates on mechanical properties. Existing models are either overly simplified (e.g., neglect agglomeration effects) or often require a significant amount of computational resources. In this study, a novel continuum-based model with a statistical approach was developed. The model is based on a modified three-phase Mori–Tanaka model, which accounts for the filler, agglomerate, and matrix regions. Fillers are randomly dispersed in a defined space to predict agglomeration tendency. The proposed model demonstrates good agreement with the experimentally measured elastic moduli of spin-coated cellulose nanocrystal reinforced polyamide-6 films. The techniques and methodologies presented in the study are sufficiently general in that they can be extended to the analyses of various types of polymeric nanocomposite systems.

Towards better understanding the stiffness of nanocomposites via parametric study of an analytical model modeling parameters and experiments

“…Recently, we developed an analytical model that uses a three-phase Mori-Tanaka model and the Monte-Carlo method to predict the stiffness of nanocomposites. 40 The model predictions and experimental findings match well. A comprehensive study of the model's parameters can allow us to examine and understand the effect of agglomeration on nanocomposites to address the aforementioned gap in the literature.…”

“…We investigate the effect of critical design variables defined in the model, such as the critical distance, agglomerates' properties, aspect ratio, particle loading, and various dispersion states of nanoparticles. The predictions of the proposed model are cross-examined with experimental results from the previous study 40 where polyamide 6 (PA6) is reinforced with cellulose nanocrystals (CNC).…”

Hybridization effect on the mechanical properties of basalt fiber reinforced ZnO modified epoxy composites

“…[ 62 ] Such clusters adhere to the polymeric chain of the matrix and the fibers leading to localized stiffening of the matrix and the fibers. [ 63 ] Also, the presence of large quantity of ZnO nanofillers impose a restriction on the free movement of the polymer chain [ 64 ] which makes the matrix to yield quickly under loading. Hence, such composites fail to stretch under loads and thus there is reduction in elongation at break.…”

Renewed interest in biopolymer composites: incorporation of renewable, plant-sourced fibers

“…Agglomeration can result from the concentration, type, and shape of the CNC present in the composite resulting in disadvantageous effects on composites such as weakened load bearing, localized stress points within the composite, loss of thermal stability, and reduced interfacial interactions (reduced mechanical and chemical bonding between the filler and the surrounding matrix. [152][153][154] These undesirable physiochemical and mechanical properties emerge in composites and hinder their potential for wider use; therefore, research has focused on using computer modeling, improved material processing, and methods for functionalizing CNCs to address agglomeration and the resulting disadvantageous properties. The most critical research has focused on addressing compatibility issues of the CNC with its surrounding polymer matrix, followed by evaluating the morphology of the matrix and the nanofiller, which influences the behavior of the interfacial interactions and overall characteristics of the composite.…”