Stimoniaris A.Z., Zois H., Kanapitsas A., Delides C.G.
Technological Educational Institute Of Lamia, GR
Keywords: nanocomposites, structural characterization, thermomechanical properties
In this work polymer nanocomposite systems based on epoxy resin (ER), reinforced with amine-modified multi-walled carbon nanotubes (MWCNTs) and/or nanoclays were studied. Thermogravimetric/Differential Thermal Analysis (TGA/DTA) and Dynamic Mechanical Analysis (DMA) techniques were carried out. The main aim is to investigate the effect of nanoclay’s incorporation on the thermomechanical properties, degradation behaviour and thermal stability of the nanocomposites. The addition of nanoclays changes the physical nature of the formed crosslinked network and could lead to enhanced chain mobility. Incorporation of small amount of nanoclays to ER/MWCNTs composites enhances nanotubes’ dispersion without harming electrical conductivity or mechanical performance of the nanocomposites. TGA results reveal that the samples show good thermal stability for temperatures up to 350 oC with a maximum decomposition temperature higher than 380 oC. The addition of nanofillers enhances the thermal properties of the epoxy matrix. For all nanocomposites studied, the thermal parameters were calculated. Tg values of the nanocomposites calculated about 2 oC lower than that of the neat epoxy matrix. This behaviour may be attributed to a large increase of free volume and/or may be indicative of pure interaction between the polymer and the filler nanoparticles in this particular complex system.
Journal: TechConnect Briefs
Volume: 1, Nanotechnology 2013: Advanced Materials, CNTs, Particles, Films and Composites (Volume 1)
Published: May 12, 2013
Pages: 63 - 66
Industry sector: Advanced Materials & Manufacturing
Topic: Materials Characterization & Imaging
ISBN: 978-1-4822-0581-7