Thermal and Mechanical Properties of Polymer/Nickel Composites

Abstract

Abstract This paper investigates the metal particles effect on the mechanical and thermal properties of polyester matrix composites. Nickel (Ni) particles were chosen as reinforcing constituents due to their well characterized mechanical and energetic properties. The effects of spatial distribution and volume fractions of the nickel particles on the mechanical behavior of polyester matrix castings has been examined by of reinforcing the polyester by 2,4,6,8,10 vol.% Ni which have been prepared using hand lay-out molding. Mechanical characteristics were the tensile properties; bending modulus of elasticity, shear stress and impact properties (fracture toughness and impact strength) has been studied. The results of the experimental work show an increase in the volume fraction of nickel particles to 10% led to increase in mechanical properties. While the thermal properties such thermal diffusivity, thermal diffusivity conductivity and specific heat capacity also affected by the incorporation of nickel powder to the matrix that increases slightly as the nickel content increases.