Cohesive Zone Approach to Multiscale Modeling of Nanotube Reinforced Composites
Abstract
This one year effort demonstrated that cohesive zone model can be adapted within a multi-scale approach to study the fracture behavior of carbon-nanotube (CNT) based polymer based composites. Some of the fundamental cohesive zone parameters like traction and displacement were computed using molecular dynamics and the results used in a non-linear finite element method to study the fracture characteristics of the CNT based composites. A new type of cohesive zone finite element was developed, and the element showed both numerical stability and accuracy. It was clearly shown using the developed method that unless the interface strength and fracture characteristics are properly controlled, the full capability of CNTs in composites could not be exploited. For example, simple carbon nano-fibers (a few micron in diameter) will outperform ONT based composites, if the former has better interface thermo-mechanical properties than the latter. Controlling atomic scale interfaces is however much more difficult and follow up work showed novel neutron bombardment and selective defect creation can achieve this. The present work paved way for breakthroughs in processing.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Nov 18, 2007
- Accession Number
- ADA474286
Entities
People
- Namas Chandra
Organizations
- Florida A&M University