STM Journals Peer-reviewed research from Consortium e-Learning Network

Journal of Nanoscience, NanoEngineering & Applications

Low-velocity Impact Studies on Glass Reinforced Composites Using Rubber Microparticles and Silica Nanoparticles Modified Epoxy Resin

  1. Jitendra S Tate
  2. Esmer Trevino
  3. Swapnil Gaikwad
  4. Stephen Sprenger
  5. Isidro Rosas
  6. Matt Andrews

Abstract

Low velocity impact studies are conducted on +/−45º stitched bonded E-glass epoxy composites manufactured using vacuum assisted resin transfer molding (VARTM). Two sets of composites panels are produced – One using unmodified epoxy resin (control composites) and the other modified epoxy resin containing both rubber microparticles and silica nanoparticles (modified epoxy composites). Modified epoxy resin blend contained 6.5 wt% rubber microparticles and 8.1 wt% of silica nanoparticles. Studies include evaluation of impact strength (ASTM D7136) and post-impact compressive strength (ASTM D7137); measurement of impact damage area, and TEM analysis to evaluate whether microparticles and nanoparticles filter out when resin flows through the glass fabric had occurred. Three specimens tested at each distinct impact energy level. The modified epoxy composites specimens appeared to have superior impact energy dissipation to surrounding area when compared to their control composites counterparts.

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