Enhancing CFRP damping with graphene nanoplatelets: experiments versus finite element analysis

Abstract

This study investigates the enhancement of damping properties in carbon fiber-reinforced polymer (CFRP) composites by incorporating graphene nanoplatelets (GNPs) into the epoxy matrix. Epoxy and CFRP specimens with varying GNP concentrations, were developed and tested through free vibration experiments to measure damping ratios. Additionally, a computational model based on the finite element method was developed to simulate the damping behavior of these hybrid nanocomposites. Using periodic representative volume elements under sinusoidal axial loads, the model accurately predicted damping performance by calculating the time lag between applied loads and resulting deformations. Comparison of numerical results with experimental data revealed a strong correlation, confirming the model’s effectiveness in capturing the influence of GNP mass fraction on damping enhancement.