Multistep modeling of Young's modulus in polymer/clay nanocomposites assuming the intercalation/exfoliation of clay layers and the interphase between polymer matrix and nanoparticles

In the present paper, a multistep technique for prediction of Young's modulus in polymer/clay nanocomposites (PCN) is developed considering the intercalation/exfoliation of clay layers and the interphase between polymer matrix and nanoparticles. This methodology is evaluated by the experimental data of various samples. In addition, the effects of several parameters attributed to intercalation/exfoliation of clay layers and interphases on the modulus are examined. The predictions demonstrate good agreement with the experimental data by proper levels of intercalation/exfoliation of clay layers and interphase properties, while the modulus is under-predicted by disregarding of these factors. The findings also indicate that more exfoliation of thinner clay layers and stronger interphase cause a higher modulus in PCN.