Atomistic Simulations of Length-Scale Effect of Bioinspired Brittle-Matrix Nanocomposite Models
Publication: Journal of Engineering Mechanics
Volume 144, Issue 11
Abstract
Atomistic simulations are performed to investigate the effect of length scale on the mechanical properties and associated plasticity of bioinspired brittle-matrix nanocomposites. The regularly staggered arrangements of stiff platelets reinforced in compliant matrix which is inspired by the nanostructure of nacre and bone is considered in the study. Although extensive studies have been done to understand the effect of length scale on nanocrystalline materials, studies on the size effect in nanocomposites are very limited. The results of the atomistic simulations are compared with those of the metallic matrix nanocomposites available in the literature. It is found that the number of lattice unit cells in the transverse gap between the platelets and the properties of the interface play significant roles in determining the critical length scale. Moreover, the critical length scale may not significantly depend on the constituent materials properties. These findings could provide guidelines in the design of tough ceramic–matrix composites.
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Published In
Journal of Engineering Mechanics
Volume 144 • Issue 11 • November 2018
Copyright
©2018 American Society of Civil Engineers.
History
Received: Jun 1, 2018
Accepted: Jun 5, 2018
Published online: Sep 11, 2018
Published in print: Nov 1, 2018
Discussion open until: Feb 11, 2019
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