Influence of the formation of clusters on the effective elastic properties of platelet reinforced polymers

The effect of the clusterization on effective properties a composite material reinforced by MXene or graphene platelets is studied using finite element method with periodic representative volume (RVE). A hybrid 2D/3D mesh used to reduce computational complexity numerical model. Several realizations an RVE were generated increasing fractions inclusions, resulting in progressive platelets. Numerically obtained are compared analytical predictions Mori-Tanaka and Halpin-Tsai equations, limits applicability models established. two-step homogenization scheme proposed increase accuracy stability relatively small number inclusions. Simple scaling relations generalize results other aspect ratios.