Abstract
In this paper, Epoxy/ZnO hybrid nanocomposites (EP-ZO-HNCs) were prepared by mechanically dispersing ZnO nanoparticles into epoxy matrix. The XRD patterns show structural changes depending on the added ZnO composition. The electrical conductivity and conduction mechanisms of EP-ZnO-HNCs are investigated by impedance spectroscopy at various frequencies (40 Hz − 100 MHz), and current–voltage measurements under DC step voltages (100 V−4 kV). DC conductivity data of EP-ZO-HNCs show a critical percolation threshold for xc = 0.43 wt% of ZnO. Furthermore, the conduction mechanisms, discussed based on current–voltage data, depend on both applied field and ZnO content. At low fields, Ohmic conduction, ensured by free carriers, is prominent, whereas at high fields, the conduction is rather governed by several processes such as: Trap Field Limited conduction (TFLC), Space Charge Limited conduction (SCLC), Schottky, hopping and Mott mechanisms. An agreement between the experimental and theoretical results is obtained. Accordingly, characteristic parameters are computed following fitting models. It was found that adding ZnO favors charge injection under high fields, creates deeper levels in the band gap and decreases the distance between hopping sites.
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