Dynamic Response and Fracture Characterization of Polymer-Clay Nanocomposites with Mode-I Crack

Abstract

In this paper, the synthesis and micro/nanoscopic characterizations of polymer-clay nanocomposites are briefly introduced. Dynamic response for mode-I crack tip in polymer-clay nanocomposite is studied by combining high speed photography with optical caustic method. A series of caustic spots surrounding the crack tip are recorded, which can reflect the dynamic stress concentration at the crack tip. Some valuable fracture parameters such as the maximum caustic characteristic size and stress intensity factor are extracted. The influence of the weight content of nanoparticles on dynamic response of the nanocomposite is shown. Microscopic fracture images of nanocomposites are analyzed by SEM. These results are useful for the reliable design of nanocomposite techniques and the evaluation of dynamic properties of nanocomposites.