Micromechanical modeling of graphene-reinforced metal/non-metal nanocomposites: multiscale insights via Hill notation

The mechanical properties of graphene nanocomposites are hindered by several critical issues, including poor dispersion, insufficient interfacial compatibility, and significant discrepancies between theoretical predictions and experimental outcomes. Traditional theoretical models fall short in accurately predicting interfacial problems and agglomeration phenomena. This work investigates the mechanical properties of graphene-reinforced metal/non-metal nanocomposites and proposes a comprehensive micromechanical model based on Hill notation. The model incorporates assumptions of an interface layer and region agglomeration degree, integrating classical Mori-Tanaka theory and self-consistent theory to account for interfacial effects between graphene and the matrix, as well as the agglomeration of graphene, influencing the elastic modulus of the nanocomposites. By introducing a thin interlayer and defining rich-filler and poor-filler regions, the model accurately predicts the variation of the elastic modulus of metal/non-metal nanocomposites with the volume fraction of graphene. The consistency between the model predictions and experimental data validates the model’s effectiveness, providing a theoretical foundation and data support for studying the mechanical properties of graphene-reinforced nanocomposites.