Structural modelling and quantitative analysis of mechanical gradient in CNT/Al composites

Carbon nanotube-reinforced aluminium normally considered to be composed of Carbon nanotube (CNT) free grain interior (GI) and CNT containing grain boundary affected zone (GBAZ). Research works showed that the property of GI varies with the distance from the boundary. To better understand the influence of this mechanical heterogeneity, we introduced a transition zone (TZ) to emphasise the mechanical heterogeneity of the GI. A dislocation-based plastic strain constitutive model was used to analyse the mechanical response, and the simulation results fit well with the experimental result. Moreover, the TZ thickness with a large simulation influence was found, and its strengthening mechanism, the influence of TZ thickness on the macroscopic mechanical response, geometrically necessary dislocation distribution were discussed in this study.

Automated summary

In this study, the mechanical heterogeneity of carbon nanotube-reinforced aluminium was investigated by introducing a transition zone. A dislocation-based plastic strain constitutive model was used to analyze the mechanical response and the simulation results were in good agreement with the experimental data. The influence of the transition zone thickness on the macroscopic mechanical response and the distribution of geometrically necessary dislocations were discussed.