pps proceeding - Abstract Preview
pps proceeding
Symposium: S09 - Polymer nanocomposites
Oral Presentation
 
 

Influence of boehmite nanoparticle on the curing kinetics and rheology of an epoxy matrix for liquid composite molding process

Abliz Dilmurat (1)*, Juergens Tobias (1), Artys Tatjana (1), Ziegmann Gerhard (1)

(1) Clausthal University of Technology - Niedersachsen - Germany

Modifying the resin matrix with nanoparticles (NPs) are especially attractive in the liquid composite molding (LCM) processes in order to increase the matrix performance, by effectively reducing the shrinkage and improving the mechanical properties without compromising the flow and impregnation behavior of the matrix. Boehmite (AlOOH) NPs are price-efficient and the hydroxyl groups on the surface could be directly used as functional groups to generate a good chemical stability and improved particle-matrix adhesion by possible covalent connection. Due to the special surface characteristics of the boehmite NPs, the particle-matrix interactions could be much more complex with a remarkable influence on the process and final properties. Main target of this paper is to characterize and model the cure kinetics and rheological behavior of the boehmite nanoparticle-modified epoxy matrix, which are not yet covered in the literature. In this work, firstly, the cure kinetics and rheology of boehmite-modified epoxy matrix with a concentration of up to 15 wt% are detailed characterized. Secondly, the cure and rheological behaviors are modelled with Kamal-Sourour and Castro-Makasco model, respectively. Moreover, model parameter studies are carried out to investigate the correlation between the NP concentration and model parameters. Based on the investigations, the Kamal-Sourour and Castro-Makasco models are modified with respect to the influence of boehmite NPs on the cure kinetics and rheology, so that the cure and rheological behaviors by different particle concentrations could be directly predicted without costly characterization and modeling processes. The characterization and modeling can provide a fundamental basis for process design and simulation of manufacturing processes for nanoparticle-modified FRP structures.