Finite element prediction of stress transfer in graphene nanocomposites: The interface effect

A micromechanical hybrid finite element approach is implemented in this study, in order to evaluate the stress transfer characteristics in graphene-based nanocomposites. Three-dimensional representative volume elements, consisting of two different parts, have been used during the analysis. The matrix material that is modeled as continuum (solid finite elements), and the graphene sheet that is modeled discretely (spring based elements). Between these two constituents, an interfacial region is taking place, simulated by appropriate stiffness variations, defining a heterogeneous region that affects the stress transfer behavior of the composite. Our simulations show good agreement with existing studies of the open literature and indicate the effect of a number of factors in stress transfer efficiency.