Existing theories based on Newtonian fluids that are used to predict the properties of particulate composites only consider the volume fraction and sedimentation factor of fillers used and do not include the properties of the composite constituents, as is the case with normal composite theory. Therefore, the interplay between the composite constituents and their properties such as shear modulus is not taken into consideration with these theories, as is done with normal composite theory. This leads to a limitation of the Newtonian fluid theories to provide good predictions of the properties of particulate composites.
Author(s) Details:
Maina Maringa,
Department of Mechanical and Mechatronic Engineering, Central University of Technology, Free State, Private Bag X20539, 20 President Brand Street Westdene, Bloemfontein, 9300, Free State, South Africa.