Effect of layering on the elastic modulus of boron nitride nano-sheet reinforced copper nanocomposite: A molecular dynamics study

In this study, the stiffness of boron-nitride nanosheet (BNNS)-embedded copper (Cu) composite is estimated by using molecular dynamics (MD) models. Approach to obtain the elastic modulus of BNNS-Cu is validated with results available in literature. Different nanoscale representative unit cells have been considered to predict the elastic modulus and tensile strength of BNNS-Cu nanocomposite. Effect of layering of BNNS on the stress-strain response is observed and found that, in line to the layering of graphene sheets, the elastic modulus and tensile strength of BNNS-reinforced Cu nanocomposite are also sensitive to the layering of BNNS. It is established that the layering of BNNS enhance the mechanical properties of the nanocomposite. It is found that the armchair/zigzag direction of BNNS affects the elastic modulus and tensile strength properties of the nanocomposite.