Multiscale modeling of CNT-based nanocomposites with soft/hard interphase effects

Interphase effects are very crucial to the overall elasto-plastic responses of carbon nanotubes (CNTs)-reinforced nanocomposites. This work focuses on an investigation of the effect of soft/hard interphase effects on the macroscopic elasto-plastic response of nanocomposites with mono-/polydisperse CNTs. On the base of interphase model, field fluctuation method and second-order stress moment, a multiscale framework is proposed. To verify the validity of the developed model, comparative analyses against experimental data are presented. Subsequently, detailed quantitative evaluations of parameters to reveal the effects of the major micromechanical variables on the effective elasto-plastic responses of CNTs-reinforced nanocomposites are implemented. Results reveal that the overall elasto-plastic responses of CNT-based nanocomposites are strongly dependent on the volume fraction and stiffness of soft/hard interphase, as well as geometrical size factor, aspect ratio and size distribution of CNTs.