Analysis of mechanical properties of glass and kevlar fiber with modified epoxy hybrid composites

Abstract

Improvement of new composite materials of existing composite material is the real challenge for most of the materials engineers. So there are huge research endeavors are emerging in the field of composites to grow new materials with upgraded mechanical, electrical and thermal properties. Among these, fiber reinforced polymer composites are the most charming as a result of their sufficient utilization in different applications which incorporates numerous mechanical, automotive and structural components. Composite materials are being widely employed in numerous modern applications. Fabrication of new composite materials has been holding the consideration of scientists worldwide and attempts are being made to improve the applicability of these materials. In view of this development in the research field, the present work attempts to study the effect of nanoclay content on the structural and morphological behavior of epoxy composites. Epoxy materials were reinforced with different particulate fractions of chosen nanoclay and the specimens were investigated. A weighted amount of epoxy resin and Cloisite 30B powder were mixed in varying proportions and then the hardener, aliphatic amine (HY-951) in the ratio 10:1 to the epoxy was added to initiate the reaction. The mixture was then poured into the mould. Different sheets of epoxy resin reinforced with varying amounts of Cloisite 30B filler i.e. 2%, 4%, 6%, 8%, 10% (by weight of resin) were prepared and tested. Filler amount was limited to 10% in composite sheet because as the filler concentration increased to 10%, gelation occurred rapidly and mixture became thick and losing fluidity. The curing time was maintained for 24hrs. newline