New Manufacturing Process of Composites Reinforced with ZnO Nanoparticles Recycled from Alkaline Batteries.

Isaac Lorero,Mónica Campo,Félix Antonio López,Gilberto Del Rosario,Silvia González Prolongo

doi:10.3390/polym12071619

Isaac Lorero, Mónica Campo + Show 3 more

Open Access

https://doi.org/10.3390/polym12071619

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Abstract

A new manufacturing method of thermosetting resins reinforced with dense particles is developed in the present work. A rotary mold is used, avoiding the natural sedimentation of particles through applying centrifuge forces. A deep study of the sedimentation phenomenon is carried out in order to evaluate the main experimental parameters which influence the manufacturing of composite. The used reinforcement is zinc oxide (ZnO) obtained by a new recycling method from spent alkaline batteries. In order to compare the benefits, commercial ZnO nanoparticles are also analyzed. Recycled ZnO particles enhance the interaction of the epoxy matrix due to their inner moisture, allowing the manufacture of composites with relatively high ceramic content. Moreover, an increment in the glass transition temperature of the epoxy matrix and in the mechanical properties, such as its stiffness and hardness, is achieved.

Highlights

The manufacture of new materials with hydrophobic polymer surfaces has attracted increasing attention in recent years
Both zinc oxides used as reinforcements, recycled and commercial ones, were characterized by field emission scanning electron microscopy (FEG-SEM) images
It is worthy to note that the recycled particles, whose synthesis has been previously published [35], show a homogenous geometry, without any other residual components

Summary

Introduction

The manufacture of new materials with hydrophobic polymer surfaces has attracted increasing attention in recent years. Capabilities like self-cleaning, anti-icing, corrosion inhibition, or hydrothermal ageing resistance can be considered among the properties derived from water and moisture repellent surfaces [1,2,3,4,5,6]. This behavior depends on several experimental parameters, such as the geometry of the surface, measured by superficial roughness, and the chemistry of materials. One way to enhance the hydrophobicity of these matrix surfaces is the introduction of dispersed ceramic nanoparticles, which increase its roughness. One interesting attribute for its use as a reinforcement for resins

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