Quantitative evaluation of nanoparticle dispersion based on modeling methods and image analysis: A case study on nano‐Sb₂O₃ filled Poly (butylene terephthalate) composites

Abstract

The dispersion state of filler in polymer‐matrix composites plays a significant role in determining the performance of nanocomposites. Thus, the quantification of dispersion analysis for inclusions in polymer composites is crucial. In this paper, the robust methods for the quantitative assessment of dispersion are developed. The methods are based on the modeling evaluation and direct analysis of scanning electron microscopy micrographs using binary image technology. The dispersion degree in polymer nanocomposites reinforced with inorganic nanoparticles is calculated by modeling method. In addition, the effect of dispersion on the tensile modulus of nanocomposites is analyzed by modeling method. To further quantify the dispersion of nanoparticles, the mean distance value between nanoparticles is measured. The dispersion index D is defined as the probability of inclusion particles free‐path spacing, according to the frequency distribution of particle spacing data. The dispersion states of different samples are compared to examine the availability of the analysis methods to various dispersion conditions such as the effect of aggregation, agglomeration, cluster distribution, and surface treatment of nanoparticles. Besides, another modeling methodology is established based on inter‐particle distance of the nanocomposites. In this model, the dispersion of the nanoparticles is assessed by comparing the inter‐particle distance with the theoretical value assuming a perfect dispersion. In the case of nano‐Sb2O3 filled Poly (butylene terephthalate) composites, the composites with different dispersion and distribution characteristics were prepared. And the microstructures of these composites are also employed to access the applicability and functionality of the analysis methods.

Comments on “Polymer compatibility,” Journal of Applied Polymer Science 17.10 (1973): 3175

“…In Schneier's paper, has been also defined as , while the correct form is for the i th polymer component 7,16 . Moreover, according to the best of our knowledge, the Schneier's expression of volume fraction has not been employed in any published study and does not match with common volume fraction relation (Equation ) 17–19 : …”

Research progress on the correlation between properties of nanoparticles and their dispersion states in polymer matrix

“…26 And the dispersion of nanoparticles can be quantitatively assessed through structural analysis with the help of transmission electron microscopy, small angle neutron scattering (SANS), ultra-small-angle X-ray scattering, 22 and scanning electron microscopy . 27 Nevertheless, it is still difficult to prepare PNCs with ideal structure and performance since the high-specific surface energy of nanofillers, causing easy aggregation. 28,29 Achieving good particle dispersion is a major challenge in the field of nanocomposites.…”

Fluorescence quantification of inorganic particle dispersity for anti-aging evaluation of polymer composites

“…3–6 The aggregation of inorganic particles would decrease the interfacial area and depress the interaction between the inorganic and organic phases. Accordingly, the macroproperties of the composites, including the mechanical properties, 7–9 flame retardancy, 10,11 electrical conductivity 12–14 and other properties, 15–17 were decayed. In order to improve the macroproperties of composites, much attention has been paid to the regulation of the dispersity for inorganic particles.…”