A comprehensive micromechanical analysis of the thermoelastic properties of polymer nanocomposites containing carbon nanotubes with fully random microstructures

A new mixed micromechanics method for a comprehensive analysis of the coefficient of thermal expansion (CTE) of carbon nanotube (CNT)/polymer nanocomposites with fully random microstructures is established. Comparisons between the model results and experiment clearly prove that for a more realistic prediction, considering random orientation and random distribution of CNTs, interphase region created due to the non-bonded van der Waals interactions between the CNT and polymer, non-straight shape and transversely isotropic behavior of CNT is essential in the modeling. The effects of interphase characteristics, geometrical properties and type of random distribution of CNTs on the nanocomposite CTEs are examined.

Automated summary

A new mixed micromechanics method has been established for a comprehensive analysis of the coefficient of thermal expansion (CTE) of carbon nanotube (CNT)/polymer nanocomposites with fully random microstructures. The study shows that considering random orientation and distribution of CNTs, interphase region created due to non-bonded van der Waals interactions between CNT and polymer, non-straight shape and transversely isotropic behavior of CNT are essential for more realistic predictions in modeling. The effects of interphase characteristics, geometrical properties, and type of random distribution of CNTs on the nanocomposite CTEs have been examined.