Novel epoxy nanocomposite materials

Abstract

The use of ytterbium triflate as a catalyst for the cure of nano modified epoxy resins is described. Incorporation of γ-valerolactone was explored as a means of reducing the fragility of the material. The cure profiles were measured using the Strathclyde curometer over the temperature window of 90 to 120°C. The gelation time was sensitive to the concentration of the catalyst present. Incorporation of nanosilica particles, created using a sol–gel method, allowed enhancement of the physical properties of the base resin matrix. The addition of γ-valerolactone influenced the cure rate and the physical properties of the matrix formed. The mechanical and thermal properties of the materials were studied using dynamic mechanical thermal analysis and differential scanning calorimetry. The incorporation of the γ-valerolactone at certain levels leads to a reduction of the glass transition temperature with increasing level of nanofiller rather than the expected increase.