The effect of Illite clay on epoxy matrix: Mechanical and rheological properties

In this work, the mechanical and rheological properties of the filled epoxy matrix by different Illite content (0%, 5%, 10%, 15%, 20%) were studied. The preparation of samples of different hybrid matrices (epoxy / Illite) was performed. Crosslinking of the samples was carried out at a temperature of 150 °C for 15min. The characterization of realized samples was conducted through tensile and Torsional tests. Experimental results show that the young's modulus and tensile strength of the epoxy increase by increasing progressively the clay content up to a content of clay 15%. This increase is due to the good dispersion of Illite particles along the polymeric epoxy chains. Beyond this content of 15% clay, the mechanical properties decrease owing to the formation of agglomerates that break the homogeneity and polymeric chains of epoxy.In this work, the mechanical and rheological properties of the filled epoxy matrix by different Illite content (0%, 5%, 10%, 15%, 20%) were studied. The preparation of samples of different hybrid matrices (epoxy / Illite) was performed. Crosslinking of the samples was carried out at a temperature of 150 °C for 15min. The characterization of realized samples was conducted through tensile and Torsional tests. Experimental results show that the young's modulus and tensile strength of the epoxy increase by increasing progressively the clay content up to a content of clay 15%. This increase is due to the good dispersion of Illite particles along the polymeric epoxy chains. Beyond this content of 15% clay, the mechanical properties decrease owing to the formation of agglomerates that break the homogeneity and polymeric chains of epoxy.