Multiscale modeling of multiwalled carbon nanotube‐reinforced polymer matrix nanocomposites and experimental validation

Abstract This study developed a numerical model of multi‐walled carbon nanotube (MWCNT)‐reinforced polymer nanocomposite to predict the tensile and flexural behavior of an earth‐stationed antenna reflector. The objectives of the study were to propose a hierarchical model of nanocomposites and introduce the variability in the dimensions of the CNTs. The CNTs were meshed with beam elements and their inner, outer diameter, and length were randomized, as per field emission scanning electron microscopy image. The distribution of the CNTs was realized with the help of a random sequential adsorption algorithm. The CNT content was varied from 0.1 to 0.4 wt% of epoxy matrix. Periodic boundary conditions were implemented. Micro‐scale results were found to lie within 10% of the Halpin‐Tsai model. A concept of dynamically allocated representative volume element was implemented at the meso‐scale, which was then upscaled to macro‐scale to simulate ASTM D3039 and D790 test conditions. With 0.4 wt% of CNT into the matrix, the tensile and flexural modulus increased by 14.42% and 23.94%. The macro‐scale simulated results were compared with literature, where the tensile and flexural modulus were found to deviate by 7.5% and 3%. This model will later be upgraded with continuous fibrous reinforcement along with MWCNT‐filled epoxy, to simulate the performance of a real composite antenna reflector. Highlights Multiscale modeling of MWCNT‐based epoxy nanocomposite was developed. MWCNT was meshed with hollow beam elements as per FESEM images. 0.4 wt% MWCNT enhanced tensile and flexural modulus by 14% and 24%. Numerical tensile and flexural modulus lied within 7.5% and 3% of the tests.