Multiscale analysis of elastodynamics of graphene-embedded ceramic composite plates

Abstract

The performance of graphene–silicon carbide (SiC) composite multilayered structure under various transverse impact loading conditions is considered in this paper. This prototypical system is examined using a multiscale approach which integrates ReaxFF molecular dynamics with Reddy’s third-order shear deformation plate theory in a hierarchical framework. In essence, the developed multiscale analysis combines the simulation of material properties (i.e., graphene nanofiller and the ceramic matrix) at the atomic scale and the mechanics of the structure at the macroscale. Accordingly, the governing equations of the aforementioned system are discretized and solved by utilizing a meshfree method. In that regard, the elastodynamics of such composites is characterized by factoring in constituent materials properties and nanofiller volume fraction. Comprehensive numerical simulations, corroborated by some of the available experimental evidence from the existing reports, reveal that (a) oxidation degree of the graphene nanofiller can be introduced as a novel tuning factor for the elastodynamic response of the macroscale graphene–ceramic composite structures, and (b) higher volume fraction of graphene enhances the flexibility and induces larger deflection of the composite plate under various dynamic loadings (softening effect). Furthermore, the dependency of the results on the structural boundary conditions is assessed. The multiscale approach and findings of this study offer insights into the feasible bottom-up design pathways for developing novel multilayered ceramic matrix composites with graphene inclusion for applications in structural engineering, energy devices, and aerospace industries.