Efficiency of stress transfer between polymer matrix and nanoplatelets in clay/polymer nanocomposites

The Hui-Shia model, which considers the complete stress transfer between polymer matrix and particles (perfect interfacial adhesion), overpredicts the Young's modulus of clay/polymer nanocomposites (CPN). In this work, the effective aspect ratio and volume fraction of nanoclay are expressed assuming the imperfect load transfer, the minimum length of platelets required for efficient stress transfer (Lc) and the interfacial shear strength (τ). Additionally, “I” parameter as the level of stress transfer in CPN is defined and determined using the effective parameters. The large nanoclay platelets with low “Lc” give a high level of “I”. Also, high “Lc” and slight “τ” observe the poor levels of effective parameters and Young's modulus of CPN. The “I” values are calculated for some samples which indicate the different levels of stress transfer in CPN. It is possible to analyze the levels of interfacial properties and stress transfer in CPN using the developed model.