Dynamic mechanical properties of spherical inclusions in polymer composite: A self-consistent approach considering morphology

Zn this work, the dynamic mechanical behavior of epoxy/A-glass bead composi tes is investigated considering the influence of the volume fraction of the beads and their surface treatments. The main differences between the diffe rent samples are observed in the rubbery modulus plateau. The "Self-Consist ent Scheme" is used to calculate the effective shear modulus of the composi te with spherical inclusions, i.e., a macroscopically isotropic polymer med ium containing spheres. The 3-phase model first introduced by Christensen a nd Lo accurately predicts results for the composite with treated glass bead s (sizing agent), but fails for the other one (untreated surface). For the latter composite, other related models (4-phase models) are also applied wi thout satisfactory results. Then, the 3-phase model is applied in successiv e steps to account for the specific distribution of glass.