A multiscale continuum model for the mechanics of hyperelastic composite reinforced with nanofibers.

A multiscale continuum model is presented for the mechanics of hyperelastic nanocomposites reinforced with randomly oriented fibers and subjected to finite plane elastostatics. The hyperelastic response of the matrix material is characterized by using the Mooney Rivlin model and the kinematics of the embedded fibers are formulated via the first and second gradient of continuum deformations. In particular, we employ the shear leg theory and Krenchel orientation parameters through which the size and orientation effects of the short fibers are computed and subsequently integrated into the models of continuum deformations. Within the framework of variational principles and a virtual work statement, the Euler equation and the admissible boundary conditions are derived. Molecular dynamic simulations are also performed to obtain the microscopic responses of the graphene-reinforced composites with three distinct configurations of graphene sheets which are then incorporated into the proposed continuum model. To this end, model implementation has been made to the deformation analysis of hyperextension of nanocomposite and the continuum damage mechanics of nanocomposite induced by the interfacial debonding. The obtained results are found to be in good agreement with the existing experimental results in the literature including the extension of Ecoflex-0030 composite up to 1000% stretch. The practical utility of the proposed model may be expected in the design and analysis of hyperelastic nanocomposites exhibiting nonlinear stress–strain responses (strain-stiffening/softening). [Display omitted] • Multiscale continuum model is presented for hyperelastic nanocomposites. • Size effect of nanofibers on the Young's modulus of the composite is predicted. • Interfacial debonding induced damage mechanics is assimilated for nanocomposite. • Large deformation is assimilated for hyperelastic nanocomposites. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]