Synthesis and Characterization of Hybrid Fiber-Reinforced Polymer by Adding Ceramic Nanoparticles for Aeronautical Structural Applications

Abstract

The multiscale hybridization of ceramic nanoparticles incorporated into polymer matrices reinforced with hybrid fibers offers a new opportunity to develop high-performance, multifunctional composites, especially for applications in aeronautical structures. In this study, two different kinds of hybrid fibers were selected, woven carbon and glass fiber, while two different ceramic nanoparticles, alumina (Al2O3) and graphene nanoplatelets (GNPs), were chosen to incorporate into a polymer matrix (epoxy resin). To obtain good dispersion of additive nanoparticles within the resin matrix, the ultrasonication technique was implemented. The microstructure, XRD patterns, hardness, and tensile properties of the fabricated composites were investigated here. Microstructural characterization demonstrated a good dispersion of ceramic nanoparticles of Al2O3 and GNPs in the fabricated composites. The addition of GNPs/Al2O3 nanoparticles as additive reinforcements to the fiber-reinforced polymers (FRPs) induced a significant increase in the hardness and tensile strength. Generally, the FRPs with 3 wt.% nano-Al2O3 enhanced composites exhibit higher tensile strength as compared with all other sets of composites. Particularly, the tensile strength was improved from 133 MPa in the unreinforced specimen to 230 MPa in the reinforced specimen with 3 wt.% Al2O3. This can be attributed to the better distribution of nanoparticles in the resin polymer, which, in turn, induces proper stress transfer from the matrix to the fiber phase. The hybrid mode mechanism depends on the interaction among the mechanical properties of fiber, the physical and chemical evolution of resin, the bonding properties of the fiber/resin interface, and the service environment. Therefore, the hybrid mode of woven carbon and glass fibers at a volume fraction of 64% with additive nanoparticles of GNPs/Al2O3 within the resin was appropriate to produce aeronautical structures with extraordinary properties.