Simulation of Young's modulus for clay-reinforced nanocomposites assuming mechanical percolation, clay-interphase networks and interfacial linkage

In this study, we consider the networking of clay and interphase section as well as crucial interfacial shear modulus (S-c) to develop an applicable model for nanocomposite's modulus. Additionally, simple equations are given for mechanical percolation onset, S-c, interphase volume fraction and the portion of clay and interphase in the network. An acceptable arrangement is observed among the measured moduli of various samples and the calculations of the advanced model. Furthermore, the reasonable impressions of all factors on the nanocomposite's modulus approve the predictability of the established model. Both interphase modulus and the fraction of networked clay-interphase straightly handle the nanocomposite's modulus. Additionally, little crucial interfacial shear modulus and great interfacial shear modulus are appropriate for the modulus. The outputs demonstrate that the addition of clay to the polymer medium cannot promise the reinforcement, because the network properties and interfacial issues play the main characters in the stiffening efficiency of clay in the samples. (C) 2020 The Author(s). Published by Elsevier B.V.