Multiscale composites based on a nanoclay-enhanced matrix and E-glass chopped strand mat

Abstract

The present work aimed at studying the effect of amino-silanized Na⁺-montmorillonite nanoclay in various matrix weight ratios (1–7 wt% at a step of 2 wt%) on the mechanical and dry sliding wear behaviors of E-glass chopped strand mat/epoxy composites. The successful grafting of organosilane compound onto the Mt surface was confirmed using Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy, simultaneous thermal analysis, and X-ray diffraction. Out of the fabricated multiscale composites, the best mechanical strengths were obtained in the specimen with 5 wt% amino-silanized Na⁺-montmorillonite loading, which demonstrated 18%, 38%, and 53% improvement in the tensile, flexural, and compressive strengths, respectively, compared to the neat chopped strand mat/epoxy composite. The results of pin-on-disk wear test exhibited approximately 81% and 58% decrease in the wear rate and coefficient of friction due to the incorporation of 5 wt% amino-silanized Na⁺-montmorillonite into the chopped strand mat/epoxy composite. Enhanced mechanical properties and wear behavior of multiscale composite filled with the amino-silanized Na⁺-montmorillonite nanoparticles were observed compared with those of the unmodified montmorillonite/chopped strand mat/epoxy composite. Based on the microscopic examination of fractured and worn surfaces, the possible mechanisms were identified and evaluated.