Heat transfer modelling of carbon nanotube reinforced composites

Abstract

In this paper an analytical prediction model for the heat transfer analysis of two-phase composite materials is developed. Formulations for the effective density, effective specific heat and effective thermal conductivity of the composite materials are derived. The present model considers not only the effect of interfacial thermal resistance between CNTs and polymer matrix but also the influence of fibre aspect ratio of CNTs on the effective thermal conductivity of the composites. The validation of the model is also provided by using available experimental data to demonstrate the appropriateness and reliability of the present model.