Numerical simulation of stress transfer mechanism of ZnO whiskers

Stress transfer mechanism of ZnO whiskers was analyzed based on shear lag method. A finite element model about tetra needle-shaped ZnO whiskers/resin matrix was built to calculate and analyze its special stress transfer mechanism and stress distribution. The results show that, because of its special structure, the whiskers stitch plays a stress synergistic role, which could support the external load better and reduce the average stress of the composites, so that the composite is not easy to destroy. Based on this, the generating program of random distribution multivariable whisker/polymer matrix composites has been developed. Through the finite element method, the influence of factors, such as arrangement pattern, aspect ratio of stitch and angle between load and stitch of whiskers, on composites could be calculated and analyzed.