Finite Element Analysis of the Effects of Nanoparticle Reinforcement on the Physical and Mechanical Properties of Composite Tubes

This study investigates the effects of carbon nanotube (CNT) reinforcement on the physical and mechanical performance of glass fiber-reinforced epoxy composite tubes using the Finite Element Method (FEM) in ANSYS. CNTs were incorporated into the composite matrix at varying volume fractions (0%, 0.5%, 1%, and 2%) to evaluate their influence on tensile strength, stiffness, buckling resistance, and thermal conductivity. Simulation results revealed that a 1% CNT addition enhanced Young's modulus from 42 GPa to 50.8 GPa and improved tensile strength by 22%, from 920 MPa to 1120 MPa. Buckling load capacity increased by 26.1%, and thermal conductivity was enhanced by 31% at 2% CNT addition. Maximum von Mises stress and total deformation were also analyzed, showing better load distribution and reduced deformation with increased CNT content. Thermal analysis indicated improved heat dissipation and lower peak temperatures. Slight density increases were observed but remained within acceptable limits. The FEM results were validated against theoretical models and demonstrated strong agreement. The study confirms the potential of CNTs to enhance the multifunctional performance of structural composite tubes significantly.