In order to enhance the dispersion and the interface in epoxy nanocomposites filled nanoparticles, a novel side‐chain liquid crystalline epoxy polymer (SLCEP) was synthesized. The SLCEP grafted to alumina (Al2O3) surfaces via the carboxyl group for dispersing nanoparticles, bonded covalently with the epoxy matrix by the epoxy group for interface improvement and maintained good liquid crystal properties by the mesogenic unit. The dispersity of Al2O3 in Al2O3‐SLCEP and epoxy nanocomposites were studied by Fourier transform infrared imaging system and field emission scanning electron microscopy. The interface of epoxy nanocomposites was researched by observing the fracture morphology. By preventing the agglomeration of Al2O3 and strengthening its interfacial bonding with the matrix, the glass transition temperature and thermal stability of Al2O3‐SLCEP/epoxy nanocomposites were improved distinctly, and Al2O3‐SLCEP/epoxy nanocomposites were much superior to neat epoxy in mechanical properties. The excellent performance of SLCEP modified nanoparticles in epoxy demonstrates that is an effective general approach for nanoparticle/polymer.
scite is a Brooklyn-based organization that helps researchers better discover and understand research articles through Smart Citations–citations that display the context of the citation and describe whether the article provides supporting or contrasting evidence. scite is used by students and researchers from around the world and is funded in part by the National Science Foundation and the National Institute on Drug Abuse of the National Institutes of Health.