Universal composition–structure–property maps for natural and biomimetic platelet–matrix composites and stacked heterostructures

Abstract

Many natural and biomimetic platelet-matrix composites-such as nacre, silk, and clay-polymer-exhibit a remarkable balance of strength, toughness and/or stiffness, which call for a universal measure to quantify this outstanding feature given the structure and material characteristics of the constituents. Analogously, there is an urgent need to quantify the mechanics of emerging electronic and photonic systems such as stacked heterostructures. Here we report the development of a unified framework to construct universal composition-structure-property diagrams that decode the interplay between various geometries and inherent material features in both platelet-matrix composites and stacked heterostructures. We study the effects of elastic and elastic-perfectly plastic matrices, overlap offset ratio and the competing mechanisms of platelet versus matrix failures. Validated by several 3D-printed specimens and a wide range of natural and synthetic materials across scales, the proposed universally valid diagrams have important implications for science-based engineering of numerous platelet-matrix composites and stacked heterostructures.

Understanding Toughness in Bioinspired Cellulose Nanofibril/Polymer Nanocomposites

“…11,12 Bioinspired nanocomposites aim at mimicking the order found in natural system and focus on ordered arrangements of hard and soft phases at high fractions of reinforcements and with precisely engineered energy-dissipation mechanisms. [13][14][15] The interplay of the different length scales during harsh mechanical loading serves to minimize failure, to reduce crack propagation and aims for the implementation of synergistic mechanical properties combining high stiffness and toughness. 11-13, 15, 16 Sophisticated control over length scales and interactions is crucial to achieve outstanding mechanical performance.…”

Bioinspired Nacre‐Like Ceramic with Nickel Inclusions Fabricated by Electroless Plating and Spark Plasma Sintering

“…[3,[11][12][13] The polymer phase in these composites are often added by vacuum infiltration. [11] Although polymers have been demonstrated as a mortar layer in brick-and-mortar architecture, [3,[15][16][17][18] polymers lack sufficient strength for optimal load-transfer between strong and stiff ceramic bricks. The specific strength of this hybrid composite approached that of the aluminum alloys while exhibiting lower density and higher stiffness.…”

“…m 1/2 ) and high stiffness (290 GPa). [11] Although polymers have been demonstrated as a mortar layer in brick-and-mortar architecture, [3,[15][16][17][18] polymers lack sufficient strength for optimal load-transfer between strong and stiff ceramic bricks. Theoretical models have identified metals as an ideal choice for the mortar layer.…”

Toughening in a nacre-like soft-hard layered structure due to weak nonlinearity in the soft layer

“…Researchers have been inspired by nacre's remarkable structure to develop new materials that demonstrate excellent mechanical performance. [12][13][14][15][16][17][18].…”

“…Researchers have been inspired by nacre's remarkable structure to develop new materials that demonstrate excellent mechanical performance. [12][13][14][15][16][17][18].There have been many studies discussing the mechanisms responsible for the toughness of nacre. Toughening mechanisms have been proposed based on a variety of experimental observations, such as (1) step-wise elongation [19], (2) micro-cracking and crack bridging [20], (3) thin compressive layers [21], (4) rough layer interfaces [22], (5) mineral bridges [23], and (6) wavy surface of the plates [24].…”