Sandwich plate model of multilayer graphene sheets for considering interlayer shear effect in vibration analysis via molecular dynamics simulations

Van der Waals (vdWs) bindings acting as interlayer shear force between graphene layers of multi-layer graphene sheets (MLGSs) are considered in vibration analysis in the present study. To idealize the structure of MLGS incorporating interlayer shear interactions, a sandwich model (SM) is represented which laminates the graphene layers. The layers stick together with vdWs bonds. The bonds are modeled as core layers between every two adjacent layers. Molecular dynamic (MD) simulation is carried out to validate the results obtained by SM. Afterward, the values for bending rigidity and layers thicknesses are obtained so as to match SM frequencies with MD results. It is observed the SM can predict the vibration behavior of MLGSs well for different values of aspect ratio. The present paper deals with a new method of incorporating shear effect and a novel investigation of integrating SM with MD.