Nanoclay-filled Epoxy Composites for Electrical Insulation Applications

摘要

Bulk samples of epoxy were modified with organically-modified nanoclays. The morphology of the modified materials has been characterised using microscopy and X-ray diffraction techniques, and found to be intercalated. Improvements in tensile and fracture properties were found. The toughening mechanisms were crack deflection and plastic deformation of the epoxy. The permittivity and loss angle of the nanocomposites decreased and their breakdown strength was increased as desired for insulation applications. The electrical damage zone was analysed with different microscopy techniques.