Work

Investigation of Mechanical and Thermal Properties of Modified Silica Aerogels/Epoxy/Aramid Composites

Year: 2025

Type: article

Abstract: ABSTRACT Due to its high pore size and low density, amine‐modified silica aerogel (XSA) is an excellent candidate for the secondary reinforcement material of polymer matrix composites. In this study, the mechanical, thermal, and morphological properties of amine‐modified silica aerogel‐reinforced aramid/epoxy composite (EAFS) produced by the hand lay‐up method were investigated. According to the resin weight, 1 wt.% (EAFS‐1), 2 wt.% (EAFS‐2), and 3 wt.% (EAFS‐3) XSA reinforcements were dispersed into the epoxy resin by ultrasonic mixer. Tensile, three‐point bending, compression, and shear tests were performed to determine the mechanical properties, while thermal properties were determined by dynamic mechanical analysis and thermogravimetric analysis. The mechanical properties demonstrated an upward trend up to EAFS‐2, after which a decline was observed at EAFS‐3. Tensile strength, modulus of elasticity, flexural strength, flexural modulus, and compressive strength of EAFS‐2 increased by 20.43%, 30.91%, 10.09%, 24.01%, and 3.62%, respectively, compared to EAFS‐0. Furthermore, the incorporation of XSA reinforcement resulted in a delay in the onset and endset of the degradation temperature.

Source: Polymer Composites

DOI: 10.1002/pc.30131

Authors: Hasan Yavuz Ünal, Selay Sert Çok, Fatoş Koç, Nilay Gizli, Yeliz Pekbey

Institution: Ege University

Language: English

Topic: Polymer Science and Applications

Subfield: Mechanical Engineering

Field: Engineering

Domain: Physical Sciences

Open Access status: hybrid

Estimated APC paid: $4,480

Funder: Türkiye Bilimsel ve Teknolojik Araştırma Kurumu