Multiscale Modeling of Graphite/CNT/Epoxy Hybrid Composites

Abstract

Incorporation of carbon nanotubes (CNTs) into epoxy-based composites for aerospace structures has been limited because of the lack of reliable structure-property relationships. Because CNTs are expensive and difficult to fabricate and test, the development of CNT/epoxy composites needs to be facilitated with computational techniques. In this work, multiscale modeling techniques have been used to predict the influence ofatomic-level structure on bulk mechanical properties of CNT/epoxy composites. In particular, a reactive force field has been used within the MD framework to predict the mechanical response of CNT/epoxy composites with di-, tri-, and tetra-functional epoxies. The results of the research indicate that tri-functional epoxies provide the highest level of CNT/epoxy load transfer, resulting in bulk materials with higher moduli and strength characteristics.

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Document Details

Document Type
Technical Report
Publication Date
Mar 09, 2016
Accession Number
AD1008224

Entities

People

  • Gregory M. Odegard

Organizations

  • Michigan Technological University

Tags

Communities of Interest

  • Advanced Electronics

DTIC Thesaurus Topics

  • Biocomposites
  • Carbon Fibers
  • Carbon Nanotubes
  • Composite Materials
  • Epoxy Composites
  • Fibers
  • Fullerenes
  • Graphene
  • Graphitic Materials
  • Materials
  • Materials Laboratories
  • Materials Testing
  • Mechanical Properties
  • Molecular Dynamics
  • Multiscale Modeling
  • Nanocomposites
  • Paper

Fields of Study

  • Materials science

Readers

  • Nanocomposite Materials Science
  • Reinforced Composite Materials

Technology Areas

  • Space