Mechanical properties of epoxy-based nanocomposites with functional nanofillers

In this study, the effects of functional nanofillers, nanofiller type, and nanofiller content on two-phase and hybrid nanocomposite mechanical properties are investigated experimentally. Nanocomposite samples containing different amounts of Multi-Walled Carbon Nanotubes (MWCNTs), graphene nanoplatelets (GNPs), functional multi-walled carbon nanotubes (MWCNT-COOHs), and functional graphene nanoplatelets (GNP Oxides) were prepared and tested. ML-506 resin and HA-11 hardener were used as the matrix. Nanocomposite elastic modulus, ultimate tensile strength, and elongation to failure are determined. The results suggest that resin elastic modulus increases with nanofiller weight fraction. Also, functional nanofillers are more effective reinforcements. Carbon nanotubes and Functional Carbon Nanotube (FCNT) nanofillers have a higher effect on nanocomposite ultimate tensile strength compared to GNPs and GOs. Nanocomposite elongation to failure decreases with filler weight fraction with functional nanofiller-reinforced epoxy being the most brittle. Field emission scanning electron microscopy images, taken from the samples, suggest that functional nanofillers disperse better in the epoxy resin and improve resin mechanical properties more effectively. In addition, molecular dynamics simulation results suggest that functional nanofillers improve nanocomposite properties by improving filler/matrix adhesion.