Thermosetting polymer composites: Manufacturing and properties study

Abstract

Abstract In the proposed study, TiC is used in different sizes (i.e., 70–150 nm and 200–250 μm) and different ratios (e.g., 0, 10, 20, and 30 wt%) to reinforce the epoxy matrix. Micro- or nano-epoxy–TiC mixtures are poured into molds that have been prepared. The results obtained show a significant improvement in hardness, impact, creep, and tensile strength when the hard particles of nano- and micro-TiC are increased up to 20 wt%. This is due to the good dispersion of the TiC powder with minimal agglomeration and air bubbles. In addition, the results obtained show a decrease in hardness, impact, creep, and tensile strength when the ratio of the hard particles of nano- and micro-TiC is increased to 30 wt% due to agglomeration and air bubbles, which create a path for cracks to propagate. The results of the hardness, impact, creep, and tensile strength tests when 20 wt% nano-TiC composite specimens are used are 22.4, 67.55 J·m−2, 0.0132, and 34.7 MPa, respectively. These results show higher values than other composite specimens. A pin-on-disc wear testing process with various sliding lengths is used to analyze wear behavior. The maximum wear resistance of the 10 wt% of micro-epoxy–TiC composites is found at a load of 5 N and a 100 m sliding distance. Optical microscopy shows small scratches on the 10 wt% micro-epoxy–TiC composite specimens in comparison with the 10 wt% nano-epoxy–TiC composites at a load of 5 N and a 200 m sliding distance.