Gradient structure with enhanced interface makes strong yet tough in high particle-filled polymer composite by cohesive finite element modeling
Source abstract
Abstract
High particle-filled polymer composites are widely used in safety-critical applications, yet their mechanical performance is limited by weak particle–matrix interfaces and insufficient meso-structural control. To overcome these limitations, a gradient structure with enhanced interfaces is developed and investigated using a validated meso-structural cohesive finite element model framework that integrates particle generation, settlement, and boundary merging, which captures both macroscopic mechanical responses and mesoscopic damage evolution in high-particle filled (above 90%) composites. Interface strength significantly influences fracture behavior, with the highest fracture energy obtained when the particle-matrix interface strength is 2 - 3 MPa for HMX-filled composites. The particle size gradient structure further enhances energy absorption during fracture. Microcracks initiated in fine-particle regions are arrested and deflected by neighboring coarse particles, suppressing crack coalescence and promoting multi-stage and multi-step fracture. This work reveals the synergy between enhanced interfaces and particle-size gradients in improving macroscopic mechanical performance by governing mesoscopic damage evolution, providing design guidance for advanced high particle-filled polymer composites.
Source: openalex_inverted_index · Quality: baseline
Research context
OpenAlex topics: Polymer Nanocomposites and Properties · Composite Material Mechanics · Nonlocal and gradient elasticity in micro/nano structures
SciVX discovery tags are terminology-based. OpenAlex topics are source-provided classifications.
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