Tensile strength prediction of carbon nanotube reinforced composites by expansion of cross-orthogonal skeleton structure

Kolarik suggested a cross-orthogonal skeleton model (COS) for tensile strength of polymer blends with co continuous morphology assuming interfacial parameter and percolating effect. In the current study, this model is developed for polymer/carbon nanotubes (CNT) nanocomposites (PCNT) containing CNT network above percolation threshold. Kolarik model is joined with Pukanszky equation for tensile strength of polymer nano composites to express "A" interfacial parameter by CNT dimensions, interphase properties and the density and strength of network. The experimental data and the justification of trends between strength and all parameters show the predictability of the suggested model. The strength meaningfully changes at different dimensions of CNT and network density (N). A main improvement in the strength of PCNT (250%) is obtained by aspect ratio (length per diameter) of 1000 and network density of 2000.