Mechanics of Particle- and Fiber-Reinforced Polymer Nanocomposites: From Nanoscale to Continuum Simulations

Learn to model your own problems for predicting the properties of polymer-based composites

Mechanics of Particle- and Fiber-Reinforced Polymer Nanocomposites: Nanoscale to Continuum Simulations provides readers with a thorough and up-to-date overview of nano, micro, and continuum approaches for the multiscale modeling of polymer-based composites. Covering nanocomposite development, theoretical models, and common simulation methods, the text includes a variety of case studies and scripting tutorials that enable readers to apply and further develop the supplied simulations.

The book describes the foundations of molecular dynamics and continuum mechanics methods, guides readers through the basic steps required for multiscale modeling of any material, and correlates the results between the experimental and theoretical work performed. Focused primarily on nanocomposites, the methods covered in the book are applicable to various other materials such as carbon nanotubes, polymers, metals, and ceramics. Throughout the book, readers are introduced to key topics of relevance to nanocomposite materials and structures--supported by journal articles that discuss recent developments in modeling techniques and in the prediction of mechanical and thermal properties. This timely, highly practical resource:

• Explains the molecular dynamics (MD) simulation procedure for nanofiber and nanoparticle reinforced polymer composites
• Compares results of experimental and theoretical results from mechanical models at different length scales
• Covers different types of fibers and matrix materials that constitute composite materials, including glass, boron, carbon, and Kevlar
• Reviews models that predict the stiffness of short-fiber composites, including the self-consistent model for finite-length fibers, bounding models, and the Halpin-Tsai equation
• Describes various molecular modeling methods such as Monte Carlo, Brownian dynamics, dissipative particle dynamics, and lattice Boltzmann methods
• Highlights the potential of nanocomposites for defense and space applications

Perfect for materials scientists, materials engineers, polymer scientists, and mechanical engineers, Mechanics of Particle- and Fiber-Reinforced Polymer Nanocomposites is also a must-have reference for computer simulation scientists seeking to improve their understanding of reinforced polymer nanocomposites.