SEM, XRD and TGA study of alumina nanocomposites

Abstract

The demand for high strength and light weight materials is ever increasing in industrial sector. Research work on new material development is going on all over the world to meet the industrial requirements. The aim of material development is to produce composites with better structural and mechanical properties. The properties of composite materials depend both on individual components used and also upon the interfacial characteristics of the constituent materials added. Addition of nanoparticles to the composites improves the properties. Properties can be controlled and improved by varying the percentage of nanoparticle loading and type of fibre used. In the present research, hybrid fibre of carbon and kevlar in the form of woven mat was used, and alumina nanoparticles were added to the epoxy to produce hybrid nonocomposites. The prepared hybrid nanocomposites were subjected to Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM ), X-ray diffraction (XRD) and Thermogravimetric analysis (TGA). SEM and XRD analysis indicated proper mixing and uniform distribution of nanoparticles with matrix and strong bonding in the composite.