Nanocomposite material properties estimation and fracture analysis via peridynamics and Monte Carlo simulation

This paper presents a numerical model for the estimation of nanocomposite material properties and fracture analysis. A non-uniform peridynamic grid is utilized to simulate the nanocomposites along with Monte Carlo simulation which models single walled carbon nanotube (SWCNT) distribution, dispersion, curvature, orientation, length and diameter. First, a random microstructure is generated from the user inputs consisting of a polymer matrix and SWCNTs. The system is then solved via peridynamic techniques and post-processed to obtain the bulk mechanical properties. Utilizing Monte Carlo simulations, the mean effective modulus for a given set of input parameters is derived. Fracture analysis is performed using a single realization and quasi-static loading conditions via peridynamics allowing simultaneous and spontaneous propagating fractures. The model is validated against experimental data available in the open literature.