Bridging the gap: A novel approach for predicting the Young's modulus of nanodiamond polymer composites

Abstract In this study, we present a model for predicting the Young's modulus of polymer/nanodiamond (ND) composites, taking into account the interphase properties. The Christensen‐Lo model is adapted and refined to predict the modulus of ND‐based nanocomposites by considering the properties of spherical NDs and their surrounding interphase. The outcomes of the developed model are benchmarked against experimental data, exploring the impact of various parameters, such as ND radius, ND concentration, and interphase properties (thickness and modulus) on the nanocomposite modulus. Findings suggest an inverse correlation between the size of the nanoparticles and the modulus of nanocomposite. Specifically, it is observed that nanoparticles with a minimum radius of 1 nm and a maximum concentration of 5 vol% can increase the nanocomposite modulus by 180%. Additionally, maximum thickness and modulus of the interphase can significantly improve the nanocomposite modulus. The highest interphase thickness of 10 nm and maximum interphase modulus of 100 GPa can grow the modulus of samples by 300%. The predicted influences of all parameters on the nanocomposite modulus validate the accuracy of the developed model. Highlights A model for the Young's modulus of polymer nanodiamond (ND) composites is presented. ND radius, ND concentration, and interphase thickness and modulus are considered. The outcomes of the developed model are compared to the experimental data. 5 vol% of the smallest ND ( R = 1 nm) increases the nanocomposite modulus by 180%. The thickest and the toughest interphase enhance the nanocomposite modulus by 300%.