ABSTRACT
Newly developed multiscale composites use nanoparticles in fiber-reinforced composites to dramatically increase strength and stiffness in the out-of-plane direction. Progressive failure analysis is performed to characterize/simulate the multiscale composites and structural components. Simulation results indicate a 21.5% increase in interlaminar shear strength for 1 wt% multiwalled carbon nanotubes in the advanced material. Improving interlaminar shear strength by reinforcing the laminate interface with nanoparticles such as double-walled or multiwalled carbon nanotubes (CNT) and nano-clay have been considered. The effective tensile and shear strengths for the unidirectional composite are calculated using the CNT aspect ratio and the ISS between the CNTs and the matrix material using shear lag theory. Analyzing multiscale composites is a challenging issue, requiring analysts to consider the mechanics from nanoscale to macroscale. The combined Finite Element and progressive failure analysis simulation of a quasi-isotropic ply lay-up gives equivalent effective random stiffness, strength, and Poisson’s ratio of the enhanced matrix.
