Multifunctional Energetic Structural Composites: Epoxy-Rubber Matrix With Nickel Aluminum Reinforcements

Abstract

Multifunctional energetic structural composite materials (MESCs) are commonly used nowadays due to their good performance and large spectrum of functional properties. The material property data of the new MESC composites are essential to material suppliers and to engineers for an efficient engineering development process. The present paper aims at investigating the design, manufacturing, and special characterization of such new multifunctional energetic structural composites. These composites can potentially be used as structural energetic materials in aeronautical engineering. Generally, a mixture of structural and energetic functions can be achieved using different reinforcements in rubber–epoxy composites. In this paper results focused on the design of MESCs based on use of highly exothermic Ni +Al powder mixture in a matrix of epoxy resin–fresh scrap rubber is presented. The material proposed in this study is produced by recycled aluminum chips and fresh scrap rubber. We expect that this material will be attractive for industrial applications because readily available recycled materials are utilized. The mechanical and some physical properties of the two composite systems were studied in this research. Microstructural characterization revealed that microsized Ni and Al were dispersed homogeneously within the epoxy–rubber matrix. Surface wear resistance was measured by a scratch test device.