Nanocomposites Based on Water Glass Matrix as a Foundry Binder: Chosen Physicochemical Properties

The nanocomposites based on water glass matrix were attempted in the study. Nanoparticles of ZnO, Al2O3 or MgO in organic solutions were applied into water glass matrix in the amounts of: 1.5; 3; 4 or 5 mas. %. Wettability of the quartz sad by the nanocomposites based on water glass matrix was determined by testing changes of the wetting angle θ in time τ for the system: quartz - binder in non-stationary state, by means of the device for measuring wetting angles. Wettability measurements were carried out under isothermal conditions at an ambient temperature (20 - 25°C). The modification improves wettability of quartz matrix by water glass, which is effective in improving strength properties of hardened moulding sands. Out of the considered modifiers in colloidal solution of propyl alcohol water glass modified by MgO nanoparticles indicated the smallest values of the equilibrium wetting angle θr. This value was equal app. 11 degrees and was smaller no less than 40 degrees than θr value determined for not modified water glass. Viscosity η of nanocomposites based on water glass matrix was determined from the flow curve, it means from the empirically determined dependence of the shearing stress τ on shear rate γ: τ = f (γ) (1), by means of the rotational rheometer. Measurements were carried out at a constant temperature of 20°C. The modification influences the binder viscosity. This influence is conditioned by: amount of the introduced modifier as well as dimensions and kinds of nanoparticles and organic solvents. The viscosity increase of the modified binder does not negatively influence its functional properties