Theoretical prediction of interfacial properties of PBT/CNT nanocomposites and its experimental evaluation

In present study, the interfacial properties of PBT/CNT nanocomposites with varying filler content from 0.1 to 0.5 wt.% are theoretically predicted and correlated with the tensile properties evaluated experimentally. The interfacial adhesion parameter is quantitatively predicted using different micromechanics models. The interfacial shear strength (τ), interphase strength (σi) and interphase layer thickness (ti) are calculated using the combined Kelly-Tyson theory and Pukanszky model. The fit of this model with experimental data is also demonstrated. Apart, the combination of Leidner-Woodhams model and Pukanszky model, which has been previously developed for spherical nanoparticles, is modified for cylindrical nanofillers such as CNTs. The values of interphase strength (σi) and interphase layer thickness (ti) are calculated using this modified combination model and agrees well with the experimental data. Furthermore, all the calculations suggests that highest interfacial bonding is obtained for sample containing 0.3 wt.% of CNTs, which is also indicated by experimental data.