Structure-Property correlation in epoxy composites containing carbonaceous nanoparticles

Abstract

Epoxy is widely used as thermosetting materials in carbon fiber composites due to its combined superior thermal and mechanical properties which makes them a potential candidate for myriad applications. But epoxy suffers from certain demerits such as brittle behavior and low fracture toughness. So, in this thesis attempt has been made to overcome the demerits of epoxy with the incorporation of functionalized multi-walled carbon nanotubes (MWNT) and graphene oxide (GO). Two different approaches were followed. In one case, the reinforcing agents were functionalized with a macromolecule that is miscible with the host pre-curing and in the other case, the nanoparticles were grafted with epoxy chains to improve the chemical compatibility with the host. These approaches were followed mainly to improve the state of dispersion of nanoparticles in the composites and further to enhance the interfacial adhesion between the epoxy host and the carbon fiber (CF) in case of the laminates. The thesis entitled “Structure-Property correlation in epoxy composites containing carbonaceous nanoparticles” systematically and thoroughly studies the effect of these functionalized carbonaceous particles on various properties of epoxy composites and epoxy/CF laminates