Epoxy/Multiwall Carbon Nanotube Nanocomposites Prepared By Sonication and Planetary Mixing Technique

ABSTRACT: Epoxy/multiwall carbon nanotube (MWNT) composites were prepared using two different mixing techniques (i.e., sonication and planetary mixing) followed by curing. Different concentrations (0.251.25wt%) of MWNT were incorporated into the epoxy. The mechanical prop-erties of the epoxy/MWNT nanocomposites were characterized using three-point bending flexural and fracture toughness tests. The morphology of the epoxy nanocomposites was investigated using field-emission scanning electron microscopy (FESEM). It was found that the mechanical properties (e.g., flexural modulus, flexural yield stress, and fracture toughness) of the epoxy nanocomposites were controlled by different concentrations of MWNT and mixing techniques (i.e., sonication and planetary mixing). The enhancement of modulus and stiffness of the epoxy could be associated with the good dispersion and reinforcing efficiency of the MWNT. FESEM micrograph evidenced that the epoxy nanocomposites prepared using sonication showed better MWNT dispersion compared with the epoxy nanocomposites prepared using planetary mixing. KEY WORDS: epoxy, carbon nanotube, sonication, planetary mixing, mechanical properties