Development, Characterization and Manufacturing of Nanocomposites and Bionanocomposites for Transportation Industry

摘要

This study seeks on the improvement of mechanical properties and flame retardancy of composites by the addition of nanoclays in soy-based unsaturated polyester (UP) resin with two types of reinforcements: glass and flax fibers. The key challenge is the achievement of a good exfoliation of the nanoclays in the polymer matrix. Different dispersion techniques have been investigated and the characterization of the internal structure of the nano-blends has been accomplished using rheology. The blends made with sonication and more by high shear mixing (HSM) show high initial viscosity and strong shear-thinning behavior which is indication of nanostructure. Scanning electron microscopy confirmed the reduction of the size of agglomerate showing a significant effect of the dispersion technique on the sample morphology, the best result being HSM. These blends show a solid like behavior indicating the formation of a 3Dnetwork gel due to the interactions between the nanoclays and the polymer matrix. Moreover, premature gelification is observed, leading to the conclusion of a probable catalytic effect of the nanoclays. Nano-composites were processed using both Resin Transfer Molding (RTM) and Seemann Composites Resin Infusion Molding Process (SCRIMP) and the manufacture process was simulated using rheology. The addition of nanoparticles shows an improvement in mechanical properties and particularly in flammability. This study led to the manufacture of a complex part, embodied in a miniature boat using natural fibers, nanoclays and bioresin.