Effect of CNTs/nano‐TiO2 hybrid system on the drop‐weight impact response of Kevlar fiber/epoxy composites

Abstract

AbstractIn this paper, the individual and synergistic effects of silanized‐multiwalled carbon nanotubes (S‐MWCNTs) and silanized‐Titanium dioxide (S‐TiO2) nanoparticles on the drop‐weight impact response of Kevlar fiber‐reinforced epoxy (KE‐EP) composites were evaluated. In the first step, the nanofillers were functionalized using an amino organosilane coupling agent (3‐Aminopropyltrimetoxysilane [APTMS]). Next, multiscale composites were prepared by adding 0.3 wt% S‐MWCNTs, 1 wt% S‐TiO2, and 0.3 wt% S‐MWCNTs + 1 wt% S‐TiO2 in the matrix. The samples were exposed to drop‐weight impact at various impact energies of 15, 30, and 45 J. The findings demonstrated that the sample filled with 0.3 wt% S‐MWCNTs + 1 wt% S‐TiO2 had the best impact performance, regardless of the initial impact energy. When compared to the neat KE‐EP sample, the multiscale composite filled with 0.3 wt% S‐MWCNTs + 1 wt% S‐TiO2 had greater peak force and absorbed energy by 23% and 18%, respectively under 45 J impact energy. Analysis of the fracture surfaces illustrated a good interfacial bonding between the Kevlar fibers and matrix for the multiscale composite having hybrid nanofillers.