Nanocomposites based on epoxy resin. Simulation of microindentation process

The process of microindentation of nanocomposites based on epoxy resin was simulated numerically by means of finite-element method (FEM). Literature data for yield strength, tensile strength, elongation and Poissonʹs ratio of epoxy resin were used as initial values for numerical simulations. Numerical results obtained by means of finite-element simulations were then compared with experimental results, obtained by means of microindentation. The distribution of equivalent Von Mises stress in investigated materials during the process of microindentation, as well as the distribution of the equivalent plastic strain after unloading were determined. Conclusions about influence of interface interactions have been made by combining the results obtained from microindentation and positron annihilation lifetime spectroscopy.