Influence of Graphene Nano Fillers and Carbon Nano Tubes on the Mechanical and Thermal Properties of Hollow Glass Microsphere Epoxy Composites

Abstract

The present work aimed to analyze the roll of carbon nano tubes and graphene nano fillers on the mechanical and thermal characteristics of hollow glass microsphere reinforced epoxy composites. Composites with varying content of hollow glass microballoons (2, 4, 6, 8, and 10 wt %) reinforced in epoxy matrix were fabricated. Additionally, two more types of composites, one with graphene nano fillers and the other with carbon nano tube at a constant 0.5 wt %, were fabricated with varying weight percentages of hollow glass microballoons (2, 4, 6, 8, and 10%). The composites were fabricated using an open mold casting process. Composites were tested for thermal and mechanical properties. The tensile and flexural moduli were found to rise as the HGM concentration increased. Graphene-filled HGM/epoxy composites revealed the highest modulus compared with HGM/epoxy and HGM/CNT/epoxy composites. The impact strength of all composite types decreased as the HGM content increased. Neat epoxy specimens revealed low response as compared with all the composites tested. Further, the thermal conductivity of HGM/epoxy composites was lower as compared with other compositions and neat epoxy. Scanning electron microscopy was used to analyze the surface morphological behavior of the composites subjected to flexural test. It was found that HGM/G/E composites with 10% of HGM and 0.5% of graphene by weight in epoxy matrix were the optimum.

Static, dynamic mechanical, and thermal analysis of coir/epoxy composites: Effect of hollow glass microspheres reinforcement

“…The increased tensile strength for the composite ECH1 could be due to strong interfacial bonding leading to an effective stress transfer from matrix to reinforcement. HGMs particles have a smooth surface which impedes the development of stress concentration at the interface and increases the composite's strength 28 . The SEM image (Figure 2B) shows an absence of fibers pull out and uniform dispersion of HGMs particles creating a better interfacial bonding.…”

“…HGMs particles have a smooth surface which impedes the development of stress concentration at the interface and increases the composite's strength. 28 The SEM image (Figure 2B) shows an absence of fibers pull out and uniform dispersion of HGMs particles creating a better interfacial bonding. The enhanced interfacial bonding between the fillers and matrix could be owing to hydrophobic nature of HGMs particles.…”

“…The density of composites was reduced with the increase in the reinforcement of HGMs which is desirable for industries. Kumar et al 28 investigated the thermal and mechanical properties of HGMs reinforced epoxy‐based composites. They observed that impact strength of the composites decreased with the addition of HGMs.…”

Advancements in Solid-State Hydrogen Storage: A Review on the Glass Microspheres

“…These composites offer a more sustainable alternative compared with conventional ECCs. Kumar D et al 124 have successfully showcased promising outcomes in the fabrication and testing of innovative composites, which synergistically incorporate HGM with epoxy resin (E), carbon nanotubes (CNT), and graphene (G). Notably, the composites leveraging a composition of 10% HGM and 0.5% graphene emerged as the optimal blend, striking an effective equilibrium between mechanical robustness and thermal regulation.…”

“…The emphasis on sustainable synthesis methods and recyclable materials is driving the technology toward eco-friendliness and economic feasibility. With a growing focus on reducing production costs Reflecting on the comprehensive body of research, it is evident that HGMs are gradually achieving commercial viability, particularly in hydrogen storage for applications like hydrogen fuel vehicles 125 and renewable energy storage systems, 123,124 including nickel−metal hydride batteries known for their high energy density, longevity, and ecofriendliness. 126 Moreover, substituting traditional higherdensity fillers with HGMs notably enhances the dimensional stability of injection-molded automotive components.…”