Enhancement of mechanical properties of epoxy/halloysite nanotube (HNT) nanocomposites

The particulate filled epoxy composites show lower mechanical properties than neat composites due to lack strength of uniform dispersion of particles leading to poor in interfacial strength between matrix and fillers. In this study, ultrasonification dispersion technique is employed to achieve a homogenous dispersion of halloysite nanotubes (HNTs) in epoxy resin. The nanocomposites are fabricated by solution casting method and specimens are prepared as per ASTM standards. The various test has been conducted as per ASTM procedure to evaluate the mechanical properties viz. density, hardness, tensile, flexural, ILSS and impact strength of the nanocomposites consisting of different weight (wt)% of HNTs varying in the range of 0-4 with the interval of 1. As per the experimental investigation, the selected dispersion techniques enhances the mechanical properties of the nanocomposite by the loading of HNT. Further, the study revealed that the 3 wt% of HNT with ultrasonic homogenized nanocomposite shows superior mechanical strength as compared to other nanocomposites. Hence it is evident that the properties of the nanocomposite depends on the quantity of filler present and dispersion condition. The dispersion condition and fractured surfaces are analyzed through the SEM micrographs.