Evaluation of the Mechanical Properties of Glass/Epoxy Composite by Embedding Shape Memory Alloy and Nanoclay

Abstract

Embedding smart materials in the composite to enhance mechanical strength have become a research hotspot owing to their unique properties. The present research also focus on novel way to fabricate composite by embedding Shape Memory Alloy (SMA) wire and montmorillonite (MMT) nanoclay by varying clay concentration (0-7 wt.%). The extent of dispersion of nanoclay in epoxy resin was studied using Transmission Electron Microscopy (TEM) and X-ray diffraction (XRD). Fabricated samples were examined for tensile, flexural and impact characteristics. Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM) was used to study the adhesion, delamination and damage occurred within the composite due to tensile loading. Results shows that the tensile strength, flexural strength and impact energy of SMA/MMT/glass/epoxy composite was improved by 23%, 21% and 57% respectively, when it was compared with composite with glass/epoxy composite.