A review: Impact of surface treatment of nanofillers for improvement in thermo mechanical properties of the epoxy based nanocomposites

Abstract

In the present review work the discussions about epoxy composites using various nanofillers (modified) has been discussed. Many advantages in nanofillers like large aspect ratio, Unique microspace structure, large lumen volume and surface area, non-toxic, etc. such as large aspect ratio, unique micro-space structure, non-toxicity, high lumen volume. In addition to these specific properties the modification of the noanofillers helps in properties enhancement of composites and makes them to be used in various scientific fields. The frequently used nanofillers in the literature are halloysite nanotubes (HNTs), Montmorillonite (MMT), Carbon nano tube (CNTs), graphene, etc. It was found that modified or treated nanofillers enhance the physical, chemical and electrochemical properties as compared to the neat nanofillers. The modification of the nanofillers was carried out by using sulfuric acid, acetic acid and many other treatment techniques. The effect of various parameters such as varying temperatures, concentrations and treatment time of the modification of the nanofillers were investigated. BET surface area has increased by treated nanofillers, resulting in polymer matrix has improved interfacial adhesion. The significantly enhanced performance of hybrid is due to the covalent bond between nanofiller and the matrix. The nanocomposites were fabricated by different compositions of nanofillers with epoxy matrix. For better dispersion of nanofillers in epoxy resin the mechanical stirrers and Ultrasonicator were used. Surface modified nanofiller improve the interactions in polymer matrix therefore tensile, flexural, and impact strengths of these composites increased. It is concluded that modification of nanofillers enhances the dispersion and interaction in epoxy resin matrix and thereby improves properties of the composites.