MWCNT/TiO2 hybrid nano filler toward high-performance epoxy composite

Abstract

In this work, multi-walled carbon nanotubes (MWCNTs) are decorated by TiO nanoparticles and formed a new hybrid structure of filler (MWCNT/TiO hybrid filler). The MWCNT/TiO hybrid filler is reinforced in epoxy matrix and studied the mechanical and anti-corrosion properties of epoxy. The morphology of newly formed MWCNT/TiO hybrid nano filler has been studied using transmission electron microscopy (TEM). Field Emission Scanning Electron Microscope (FESEM) images of tensile fracture surface confirmed the superior dispersion of MWCNT/TiO in the epoxy matrix. The resultant MWCNT/TiO hybrid-epoxy nanocomposite exhibits superior anti-corrosion and mechanical performance than the nanocomposite produced by loading of only MWCNTs or TiO nanoparticles as well as neat epoxy. For example, tensile strength and storage modulus of epoxy increased by 61% and 43% respectively on loading of MWCNT/TiO hybrid nano filler. Furthermore, the coating of MWCNT/TiO hybrid-epoxy nanocomposite on mild steel reduces the corrosion rate upto 0.87×10MPY from 16.81MPY.

Effect of the content of silane-functionalized boron carbide on the mechanical and wear performance of B4C reinforced epoxy composites

“…The peak obtained in the diffractogram of the cured neat epoxy resin and its composites agree with the reported literature. 37,[42][43][44][45][46][47] Moreover, from the XRD plots, it is apparent that the inclusion of boron carbide fillers does not produce any significant transformation to the crystallinity of the epoxy. Therefore, the analysis indicates that no transformation to the trans-crystalline phase occurs in the system interface, indicating a negligible or no change to the basic crystal structure of the cured epoxy because of the inducted fillers.…”

Synergistic effect of ultrasonically assisted exfoliated MWCNTs by ZrO2 nanoparticles on thermo-mechanical and anti-corrosive properties of epoxy nanocomposites

“…6 Among them, organic coating, combined with organic and inorganic nanofiller, is the best approach that reduces the corrosion rate by forming a protective barrier against environmental contaminants. 7 The epoxy (EP)-based coating has attracted favorable attention in recent years due to its high chemical resistance, excellent wear resistance, thermal stability, and good adhesive properties. 8,9 The protective layer of EP resins creates a barrier between the metal substrate and the contaminants.…”

Effect of Particle Size on the Mechanical Properties of TiO2–Epoxy Nanocomposites

“…The performance of nanoparticle-reinforced PNCs as a function of dispersion and interfacial interaction has been investigated in many studies; the results have suggested that good dispersion and strong interfacial interaction can effectively transfer the stress from the polymer matrix to the nanomaterials [ 18 , 19 ]. Various dispersion methods such as extrusion, ball milling, three-roll milling, solvent casting, and functionalization of nanoparticles have been employed.…”