Finite Element Analysis of Composite Materials Reinforced with Flawed Nano-Particles

The main objective of this research is to utilize the finite element method as an effective tool for accurately predicting the effective stiffness of a composite material reinforced with nano-particles. The analysis focuses on two specific scenarios. Firstly, it investigates a case where the nano-particles act as ideal reinforcements, assuming they remain completely intact throughout the analysis. Secondly, the study explores a scenario where the nano-particles are assumed to be fully defective or fractured. To conduct the analysis, a linear elastic, finite element approach is employed. The stiffness of the particles plays a critical role in the investigation, as it significantly affects the overall behavior of the composite material. Furthermore, the analysis considers various particle volume fractions to assess their influence on the effective modulus of elasticity for the examined cases. By examining these factors, the study aims to enhance our understanding of the mechanical properties of composite materials reinforced with nano-particles, providing valuable insights for practical applications and design considerations.