Multiscale Modeling of Graphite Plain-Weave Composites with a SWNT-Reinforced Epoxy Matrix

The objective of this study is to develop a multiscale modeling approach to predict the influence of molecular structure and microstructure on the bulk-level properties of a graphite/epoxy plain-woven fabric composite in which the resin-rich regions are reinforced with carbon nanotubes. The modeling approach incorporates molecular modeling and micromechanics techniques. A parametric study shows that nanotube length has a strong influence on the predicted bulk properties for nanotubes below 100 nm long. Above 100 nm, further increases in length have a negligible impact on bulk properties. It is also shown that nanotube volume fraction has a strong impact on the axial and bending laminate properties. Furthermore, nanotube functionalization to the surrounding epoxy in the resin-rich regions of the woven composite has little impact on the overall performance of the composite.