Predictions of the electro-mechanical response of conductive CNT-polymer composites. (May 2018)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Matos, Miguel A.S.; Tagarielli, Vito L.; Baiz-Villafranca, Pedro M.; Pinho, Silvestre T.
• Is Part Of: Journal of the mechanics and physics of solids. Volume 114(2018)
• Page Start: 84
• Page End: 96
• Publication Date: 2018-05
• Subjects: Strain-sensing (A) -- Carbon nanotube (B) -- Polymeric material (B) -- Finite elements (C); Mechanics, Applied -- Periodicals; Solids -- Periodicals; Mechanics -- Periodicals; Mécanique appliquée -- Périodiques; Solides -- Périodiques; Mechanics, Applied; Solids; Periodicals; 531.05
• DOI: 10.1016/j.jmps.2018.02.014
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 0022-5096

Abstract

Abstract: We present finite element simulations to predict the conductivity, elastic response and strain-sensing capability of conductive composites comprising a polymeric matrix and carbon nanotubes. Realistic representative volume elements (RVE) of the microstructure are generated and both constituents are modelled as linear elastic solids, with resistivity independent of strain; the electrical contact between nanotubes is represented by a new element which accounts for quantum tunnelling effects and captures the sensitivity of conductivity to separation. Monte Carlo simulations are conducted and the sensitivity of the predictions to RVE size is explored. Predictions of modulus and conductivity are found in good agreement with published results. The strain-sensing capability of the material is explored for multiaxial strain states.