Interphase layer theory and application in the mechanics of composite materials

In the present research work the interphase layer model is developed as a continuum media with local cohesion and adhesion effects. By the model it was found that these effects can help to understand/predict macro/micro mechanics of the material, if the boundary conditions and phase effects are modeled across the length scales. This paper describes the kinematics of continuum media, the formulation of governing equations (fundamentals) and the statement of boundary conditions for multi-scale modeling of the material. An approach and the model has been validated to predict some basic mechanical properties of a polymeric matrix reinforced with nanoscale particles/fibres/tubes (including carbon nanotubes) as a function of size and also dispersion of nanoparticles. Presented mathematical model of an interphase layer allows estimating an interaction around and nearby interfaces of nanoparticle and material matrix. Using these approaches the prediction methodology and modeling tools have been developed by numerical simulations and analysis of the mechanical properties across the length scales. Results of the work will provide a platform for the development and understanding of nanoparticle-reinforced materials that are light-weight, vibration and shock resistant.