Effect of nano-particles on the tensile, flexural and perforation properties of the glass/epoxy composites

Abstract

The objective of this study is to characterize the damage in glass fiber reinforced composite laminated reinforced with nanosilica particles subjected to tensile, flexural, and transverse loadings. Tensile, three-point bending, quasi-static indentation test, and ballistic impact tests were used in order to obtain the perforation response, flexural and tensile behavior of the composites and nanocomposites. Experimental test series was carried out to determine the tensile and flexural strength and stiffness, impact energy absorption, and failure mechanisms of composites in the presence of nanoparticle. Hand lay-up method has been used to manufacture nanocomposites constituted of 12 layers of 2D woven glass fibers with 40% fiber volume fraction. The composites were reinforced by adding organically modified nano-silica in a 0%, 0.5%, 1%, and 3% ratio in weight with respect to the matrix. Results revealed that in 0.5 wt.% nanoparticles, energy absorption and tensile strength are maximum, but flexural strength has the highest value in 3 wt.%. Furthermore, the highest energy absorption, elastic energy, and energy absorption at maximum force in quasi-static penetration occur in 0.5% nanosilica content. In the case of ballistic tests, effect of nanosilica is more tangible than in quasi-static indentation. Nanocomposite at 0.5% nanosilica recorded higher ballistic limit and energy absorption in comparison with other composites and nanocomposites. SEM images showed that fracture surfaces in 0.5 wt.% nanocomposites are rough and engender more crack tips in comparison with other specimens, which contributes to higher energy absorption in static and dynamic tests.