Abstract
Optimized ultrasonic assisted dispersion of un-functionalized titanium dioxide (TiO2) nanoparticles (0.5–20wt%) into epoxy resin is reported. The investigation shows that there is a direct relation among nanoparticles content, inter-particle spacing and cluster size of the particles on the glass transition temperature (Tg) and tensile properties of the prepared nanocomposites. A significant improvement in tensile strength and modulus with minimal detrimental effect on the toughness was observed for the prepared composites, where compared to pristine epoxy resins, about 26% and 18% improvement in tensile strength and strain-to-break %, respectively, was observed for 10wt% particles loading, whereas a maximum improvement of about 54% for tensile toughness was observed for 5wt% particles loaded resins. The investigations found that a strong particle–matrix interface results in the enhancement of the mechanical properties due to leading toughening mechanisms such as crack deflection, particle pull out and plastic deformation.
Sign-in/Register to access full text options 
Free) 
Talk to us
Join us for a 30 min session where you can share your feedback and ask us any queries you have
Schedule a call
