Investigation of Carbon Black/ Polyester Micro-composites: An Insight into Nano-size Interfacial Interactions

Abstract

In the micro/nanomaterial reinforced composites, interfacial interactions at the interface of filler/polymer lead to the formation of a third layer called interphase as the secondary reinforcing mechanism. The interphase may be formed due to local adsorption of polymer chains at the interface, mechanical interlocking, and interdiffusion of polymer chains. Since the interactions govern the load transfer at the filler/polymer interface, they play a key role in the mechanical response of reinforced composites. However, there exist only a few well-established and validated studies in the description of the interfacial interactions presented in thermosetting composites. This research aims at the understanding of correlations amongst the mechanical properties of thermosetting polyester composites reinforced with 0-15 wt. % of carbon black (CB) focusing on the nano-size cooperative rearranging region (CRR). To estimate the length of CRR, thermal analysis of the variations in the specific heat capacity or the relaxation strength within the glass transition temperature (Tg) range was measured using a thermodynamic model. A nano-size CRR of 10 nm on average was estimated and correlated to the enhanced impact and toughness behavior of the specimens. The results suggested the presence of softer interphase based on the Tg values influenced by the CBs agglomeration level and cross-linking density, which in turn governs the mechanical response of the composites. The methodology introduced in this study can be used in the explanation of changes in mechanical and physical properties of reinforced composites with a focus on the underlying role of nano-size interfacial interactions.

Development of a Novel Super-active Ziegler-Natta Polyethylene Catalyst: Study on Structure, Performance and Application

“…The sample was initially degassed at 200 ºC for 4 h. Surface area of the catalysts was calculated from the nitrogen adsorption isotherm data, using Brunauer, Emmett and Teller (BET) equation. The pore size and pore volume of the catalysts were calculated from N2 adsorption isotherm data with the help of Barrett, Joyner, Halenda (BJH) model (44).…”

Comparative Analysis of NR/EPDM Ratio and Carbon Black Selection on Mechanical Properties of Vulcanized Pneumatic Fenders

“…The biggest concern is that poor interfacial bonding cannot be avoided because fillers have a propensity to aggregate, significantly reducing mechanical and electrical properties. Compared to initial expectations and causes predicting elastic models fail because of incorrect filler/polymer bonding assumptions 13) .…”