2006 Ohio Student Research Forum

Abstract

Polymer Nanocomposites for Aerospace and Other Applications
Dante R. Guerra
Ohio State University
Department of Mechanical Engineering
Mentor: Dr. L. James Lee, Gang Zhou

Polymer Nanocomposites, composite materials reinforced by nanoparticles, show great potential for Aerospace and Biomedical applications as well as for any other application where conventional composite materials are currently used. Nanoparticles addition to composite materials increases the overall toughness of the material under loading. However, research has yet to conclude which nanoparticles contribute the most to increase the mechanical properties, barrier properties and flame retardance to conventional composite materials. A big concern when developing composite materials is the strengthening of the polymer resin in the composite. In all composites, the weakest areas are the polymer area and the interface between the polymer matrix and long fibers.

The objective is to reinforce both the polymer and interface area by introducing nanoparticles, and obtain a superior polymer nanocomposite. The challenge is to develop a method to disperse the nanoparticles in the composite without diminishing the processibility of the resin. The first approach to achieve this goal is to first mix the nanoparticles with the polymer resin and then add long fibers.

The second approach is to mix the nanoparticles with the long fibers and then add the resin. The nanoparticle dispersion of both approaches will be analyzed through X-ray Diffraction and determine the best method.

This study, part of an ongoing research project at The Ohio State University Chemical & Biomedical Engineering Department, focuses specifically on fully characterizing the added properties and behavior of Polymer Nanocomposites with nanoclays and carbon nanofibers. Tests consist of ASTM D 790-00 Standard Test Methods for Flexural Properties of Unreinforced and Reinforced Plastics and Electrical Insulating materials.

Test results suggest that the proper combinations of polymers, ananoparticles, and long fibers can offer advanced structural composite products with light weight and high performance at a lower cost.