Publication

Abstract : Inspired by the impact of nanostructured hybrids in the toughening of the epoxy matrix, the effect of an amphiphilic triblock copolymer, poly(ethylene glycol)-b-poly(propylene glycol)-b-poly(ethylene glycol) (TBCP) grafted multiwalled carbon nanotube (MWCNT) in the epoxy matrix is investigated. The effect of molecular architecture in determining the mechanical properties is elucidated in detail. The self-assembly of surface engineered MWCNT (MWCNT-g-TBCP) synthesized via the “grafting to” approach and the related formation of aggregated structures in the epoxy are analyzed and correlated with the mechanical performance. The synergisitic effect of the components of the hybrid filler and the hierarchical worm-like arrangement of the grafted filler contribute to an overall enhancement in the fracture toughness of about 367% compared to neat epoxy, without compromising the tensile strength. Further, evaluation of rheological and thermal behavior helped in understanding the processing parameters of the epoxy nanocomposites.