The effect of clay on the mechanical properties of epoxy resins subjected to hygrothermal ageing

Abstract

Epoxy polymers are an important class of material for use in various applications. Due to their hydrophilic nature, epoxy resins tend to absorb moisture. Absorption of moisture degrades the functional, structural and mechanical properties. For polymers, it is known that moisture absorption can lead to both reversible and irreversible changes. In this study, the combined effect of moisture and elevated temperature on the mechanical properties of Epon 862 and its nanocomposites were investigated. The extent of permanent damage on fracture toughness and flexural properties of epoxy, due to the aggressive degradation provided by hygrothermal ageing, was determined by drying the epoxy and their clay/epoxy nanocomposites after moisture absorption. From the investigation it was found that, hygrothermal ageing has detrimental effect on mechanical properties of both neat polymer and clay/polymer nanocomposite. Significant permanent damage was observed for fracture toughness and modulus, while the extent of permanent damage was less significant for flexural strength.