Abstract
The objective of this work was to enhance the mechanical properties of E-glass chopped strand mat (CSM)/epoxy composite via the incorporation of CaCO3 nanoparticles in the matrix. 3-aminopropyltrimethoxysilane as an organosilane compound was utilized to functionalize the surface of CaCO3 nanoparticles. The multiscale composites containing functionalized-CaCO3 (f-CaCO3) with various weight fractions (0.5, 1, 3, and 5 wt.%) were prepared to explore the effects of f-CaCO3 on the flexural and wear properties. The results of the three-point bending test demonstrated that 1 wt.% f-CaCO3 addition led to a maximum enhancement of 44% in the flexural strength of the CSM/epoxy composite. In addition, 42% enhancement in flexural modulus was achieved with the addition of 3 wt.% f-CaCO3. The results of the wear tests showed that the f-CaCO3/epoxy matrix could provide enhanced wear resistance and the maximum resistance was obtained via adding 3 wt.% f-CaCO3. Incorporation of 3 wt.% f-CaCO3 resulted in 56% and 43% reductions in wear rate and friction coefficient of the CSM/epoxy composite, respectively. It was also found that the silanization of CaCO3 had a significant effect on flexural and wear properties. Scanning electron microscopy analysis of the fracture and worn surfaces clearly revealed that the nano-CaCO3 addition resulted in improved fiber-matrix interfacial bonding.
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