Abstract
The stiff and fragile structure of thermosetting polymers, such as epoxy, accomplices the innate cracks to cause fracture and therefore the applications of monolithic epoxy are not ubiquitous. However, it is well established that when reinforced especially by nano-fillers, its ability to withstand crack propagation is propitiously improved. The crack is either deflected or bifurcated when interacting with strong nano-filler such as Multi-Layer Graphene (MLG). Due to the deflection and bifurcation of cracks, specific fracture patterns are observed. Although these fracture patterns seem aesthetically appealing, however, if delved deeper, they can further be used to estimate the influence of nano-filler on the mechanical properties. Here we show that, by a meticulous examination of topographical features of fractured patterns, various important aspects related to fillers can be approximated such as dispersion state, interfacial interactions, presence of agglomerates, and overall influence of the incorporation of filler on the mechanical properties of nanocomposites.
Highlights
The polymer matrix composites (PMCs) have found extensive applications in aerospace, automobile, and construction owing to ease of processing and high strength to weight ratio which is an important property required for aerospace applications [1]
This was the reason that no specific orientation of crack propagation was observed in 3PBT specimens reinforced with Multi-Layer Graphene (MLG)
There were no diversions in crack path in case of monolithic epoxy, a bit coarser topography was observed in case of MLG-EP samples
Summary
The polymer matrix composites (PMCs) have found extensive applications in aerospace, automobile, and construction owing to ease of processing and high strength to weight ratio which is an important property required for aerospace applications [1]. The second highest improvement in mechanical properties was observed in case of MLG dispersed in epoxy (ME). In case of MLG dispersed in acetone (MA), least improvement in mechanical properties was observed. A careful examination of the topographical features of the fractured surfaces suggests that the dispersion state of the fillers, interfacial interactions, and presence of any agglomerates of filler can be estimated based on the surface parameters such as maxi-. A high value of Rz with deep crater and/or trenches indicates the presence of filler agglomerates and concomitant poor mechanical properties of polymer nanocomposites. A relatively high surface roughness average with low Rz value indicates the uniform dispersion of the filler and simultaneously improved mechanical properties. It was observed that waviness average parameter (Wa) does not have any relation with the weight fraction, dispersion state, or agglomeration of the filler
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