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A novel approach was carried out to evaluate the effects of nanoclay in nanocomposite laminates based on mechanical properties, thermal analysis, and surface structure analysis. The composite panel was fabricated by reinforcing glass fiber with epoxy resin. Likewise, nanocomposite panels were fabricated by reinforcing glass fiber with nanoclay loaded epoxy. The loading of Cloisite 25A nanoclay in epoxy resin is varied as 2%, 4%, 6%, 8%, and 10% on weight basis. Upon completion of curing, the composite panel and nanocomposite panels were fabricated by using compression molding. The tensile test exhibited that the addition of nanoclay in epoxy resin has improved the tensile strength and Young's modulus by 33.39% and 15.88%, respectively for 2 wt% clay loading laminates than unfilled laminate. Likewise, the greater flexural strength of 438.04 MPa and flexural modulus of 22.12 GPa were attained for 2 wt% nanoclay/epoxy nanocomposite. The thermal results disclosed that greater thermal stability was attained between temperatures ranges from 0°C to 180°C for low clay content. The surface morphology too proved that the prepared laminates of 2 wt% loading exhibited appreciable surface property. POLYM. COMPOS., 39:1861–1868, 2018. © 2016 Society of Plastics Engineers

The good adhesion and interfacial interaction between the nanomaterial and the matrix show that the low content polymer nanocomposite has better tribological and mechanical properties such as strength, modulus, fracture toughness, and fatigue properties. This phenomenon has attracted the attention of many researchers in this field for the past two decades. Nanomaterials are available in many forms, such as nanotubes, nanoclays, nanofibers, nanoparticles, and graphene depending on the shape. This article summarizes the mechanical test results of different nanocomposite materials under various operating conditions. In addition, the current research clearly describes various decisive factors that affect material properties, such as the dispersion of nanoparticles, clay tactoids, processing conditions, agglomeration, and distribution status. The tribological properties and fatigue resistance of nanocomposites are also discussed in this study. In addition, the article also discusses the related issues of incorporating nanomaterials into the matrix.

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