Investigation of TiO2 Nanoparticles Influence on Tensile Properties and Thermal Stability of Dry and Wet Luffa-Epoxy Nanocomposites.

Abstract

Recently, progress has been made toward understanding the efficiency of polymer composites with natural fibres. With the hope of enhancing the characteristics of polymer composites supplemented with natural fibres in a watery environment, TiO2 nanoparticles have been used to improve their performance in the field. These nanoparticles were filled in luffa-epoxy components at 1, 3, and 5 % volume fractions. A combination of x-ray diffraction and Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy was utilized to conduct the structural examinations. The nanoparticle spread was captured by field emission scanning electron microscopy. Results show that dry nanocomposite's tensile strength and modulus have increased by 74% and, 13%, 137%, and 50% compared with epoxy and 40 vol% luffa-epoxy [E/L] composites, respectively. In wet nanocomposites, maximum reduction in tensile strength and modulus were observed as 27.4% and 16.54%, respectively. The diminished water absorption and thickness swelling percentage of nanocomposites were recorded as 98% and 91.8%, respectively. The onset temperature of these nanocomposites was scattered in the range of 379-393°C, with a maximum char residue of 38%. The increase in the percentage of residue indicates the effectiveness of epoxy's flame retardant, improved thermal stability, diminished water absorption [approximately 2%], and 95% retention of wet composites' tensile properties. These results provided data support for improving the application of nanocomposites in the automobile field.