Numerical modelling of flexural and tensile behavior of epoxy-based foam composite filled with hollow glass microspheres and nanoclay

Abstract

This work focuses on numerical and experimental studies of the tensile and flexural properties of epoxy-based foam panels filled with hollow glass microspheres and nanoclay particles, with the aim of enhancing the tensile and flexural strength of the foam composite panels. The composite was developed using a conventional resin-casting method through an experimental approach, and Abaqus 6.13 software was used to perform finite element simulations of tensile and flexural properties. As needed, standards were followed when doing the finite element simulations and analysis. The developed models were also used to simulate and experimentally validate the tensile and flexural performance of such panels. A relationship was found between the mechanical property data from the finite element simulations.

The findings revealed that the maximum tensile strength of 23.77 MPa was observed in the 3 wt%HGM+1 wt%Nanoclay composite, and the maximum flexural strength of 66.21 MPa was found in the 1 wt%HGM+1 wt%Nanoclay composite, which was found to have enhanced the bending strength of the composites compared with neat epoxy, as validated by numerical analysis. It was shown from a comparison of the outcomes which revealed that the experimental specimens and numerical simulation were accurate, with a maximum error of roughly 8.93%. The findings provide a workable way to reduce weight and improve fuel efficiency in cars and aeroplanes by replacing the heavier parts with an epoxy-based composite panel.