Role of nanoparticles in microstructure tuning of toughened epoxy matrix synergism of viscoelastic and microwave absorption characteristics

Abstract

1. INTRODUCTION newlineEpoxy resins are well established for a wide range of applications in coatings, newlineadhesives, and fibre reinforced composites for aerospace and structural components. newline(Zhang et al. 2013) However, the foremost weaker side of epoxies is its brittleness (Zhang newlineet al. 2018) or low fracture toughness due to its high degree of crosslink density that newlineovertakes its excellent positive side. Several strategies were employed to modify the impact newlineproperties of epoxies. One among such common methods is the secondary phase inclusion newlineof elastomers, thermoplastics, block copolymers, and nanoparticles. The toughening of newlineepoxide with natural rubber depends on the structure and shape of rubber particles. It was newlinealso pointed out that the inter penetrating (IPN) or semi-interpenetrating (SIPN) network newlineformed between epoxy and rubber combination boosts the mechanical properties to a newlinesignificant extent. (Chen et al. 2011). Another important concern with epoxy is its newlineintolerance to vibrations that often lead to undesirable properties such as unpleasant newlinemotions, noise, and dynamic stresses. These undesirable vibrations would lead to fatigue newlineand failure of structures and ultimately decrease the reliability and performance of the newlineresultant products. Hence, prevention of damping of these vibrations is very essential, newlinewhich could be achieved either by passive or active mode. newlineCuring temperature plays a decisive role in tuning the toughness of the epoxy newlinematrix. In practice, the mid temperature fast curing epoxy ad newline