Just adding few insights based on SAMPE on nanofiber manufacturing based on trending composites application like wearable electronics, stiffening composite laminate. However, not much scope for continuum mechanics application for our multiscale modeling as discussed with Dr. Yu.
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Multifunctional nanocomposites used in Nacelle deicing. Lot of interest in R&D teams, as nanofiber heat and shake off the ice at high altitude. Outer layer graphene providing stiffness. NAWA America executive discussed scaling manufacturing of nanofibers reinforcement in marines, aircraft, and big ship building.
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Experimental study of Z-threaded carbon nanofibers by Dr. Kuang from University of South Alabama show process of making flat resin sheet with nanofibers aligned (using EMI) and strengthening the composite performance. They aligned in transverse direction to fiber and lie at interface between laminas. Thereby, supporting the transverse load without increasing weight and cost.
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High boom in flexible wearable where high stiffened nanofiber used for sensors, electronics. Attended Dr. Davood presentation from WSU, where he discussed using helical nanofibers over straight nanofiber. Helical don’t need to be aligned and can intermingle which provides better transverse stiffness and structural performance.
The cost of adding helical nanofiber is pretty low and implementable unless functional nanofibers not incorporated. The manufacturing of nanofibers is done through catalytic chemical vapor deposition (CCVD). -
At nanoscale, modeling issues always lie as additional information not captured through continuum theories. This requires molecular dynamics understanding with FEA.