Design and Mechanical-Physical Properties of Epoxy-Rubber Based Composites Reinforced with Nanoparticles

Epoxy rubber based structural composites (ERCs) are used in engineering applications especially in the aeronautical area because they can meet the necessary requirements in new multifunctional systems. These composites exhibit good overall mechanical and thermal performance and they can potentially offer a large variety of functional properties. The data for basic material parameters of these composites are essential for an efficient engineering development process. The present paper discusses the design and characterization of these composites. In general, a combination of structural and energetic functions can be achieved by using different nanoparticle reinforcements in epoxy-rubber composites. This type of material design gives an exigent task to the designers looking to integrate more functionality into the base material of their structure to achieve overall improved system performance. This paper is focused on the design of ERCs reinforced with nano powders in a matrix of epoxy - fresh scrap rubber. It is expected this material would be attractive for industrial applications because of the readily available recycled constituents that are utilized. The mechanical and some physical properties of these composite systems were studied in this research. Microstructural characterization revealed that micro and nano sized reinforcements were dispersed homogeneously in the epoxy-rubber matrix. Mechanical properties were evaluated by means of three-point bending (3P bending) tests, dynamic mechanical analysis and also Brazilian disc test was conducted to see the fracture characteristics. Differential scanning calorimetry analyses (DSC) and X-ray diffraction (XRD) were used to understand better the physical characteristics. Finally, microstructure and fracture surfaces were observed with the help of scanning electron microscope (SEM).