Improving the Mechanical and Thermal Characteristics of Epoxy by a Multi-Phase Nanocomposite (Epoxy/PSA/CF/SiO2)

نویسندگان

1 Institute of Nano Science and Nano Technology, University of Kashan, Kashan, I.R. Iran

2 Institute of Nano Science and Nano Technology, University of Kashan, Kashan, I.R. Iran

doi
10.22052/JNS.2025.04.038
چکیده

In recent years, researchers have drawn attention to the fact that the mechanical properties of hybrid composite materials reinforced with carbon fibers and nanoparticles are significantly superior to those of conventional composites. This study investigates the use of epoxy nanocomposites reinforced with carbon fiber (CF), polystyrene acrylic (PSA, 0–2 wt%), and SiO₂ nanoparticles. To optimize the mechanical performance, response surface methodology (RSM) and central composite design were employed. The composites were characterized using various techniques such as FT-IR, XRD, SEM, EDX, and TGA, while tensile tests were conducted to evaluate their mechanical properties. The results revealed that the addition of CF, PSA, and SiO₂ significantly enhanced the stress, strength, and strain of the composites compared to neat epoxy. The optimal performance was achieved at 1.59 wt% CF, 1.29 wt% PSA, and 0.40 wt% SiO₂, confirming the synergistic role of these reinforcements in improving the mechanical and thermal behavior of the composites.