Vibration frequency of graphene based composites: A multiscale approach

This paper presents a multiscale approach for vibration frequency analysis of graphene/polymer composites. The graphene is modelled at the atomistic scale, and the matrix deformation is analysed by the continuum finite element method. Inter-connectivity between graphene and polymer matrix are assumed to be bonded by van der Waals interactions at the interface. The impact of geometrical configuration (armchair and zigzag), boundary conditions and length on the overall stiffness of the graphene reinforced plastics (GRP) is studied. The natural frequency and vibrational mode shapes of GRP studied have displayed dependence on the length and also the boundary conditions. The exceptional vibrational behaviour and large stiffness displayed by GRP makes them a potential replacement for conventional composite fibres such as carbon and glass fibres. (C) 2011 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.