Optimization of Tensile Properties of Epoxy/Nanoclay/MWNT Nanocomposites by Taguchi Method

Abstract

In this study, nanoclay and multi-wall carbon nanotubes have been used as a dual filler in an epoxy matrix. In the design of the experiment (DOE) the Taguchi Method was selected to study the effect of the factors involved in this study. The effect of the clay/MWNT ratio, types of solvent, clay cation, composition of LENR, cure time and cure temperature on tensile properties of the epoxy nanocomposites were investigated. The confirmation experiment obtained from Taguchi analysis, achieved 57% improvement in tensile strength. X-ray diffraction (XRD) and transmission electron microscopy (TEM) revealed the presence of intercalated and aggregated structures. Due to the lower crosslink density of the system, a decrease in decomposition temperature and glass transition temperature was observed in the optimum sample.