Absorption and Wet Retention of Flexural Properties of E-Glass Flake/Epoxy Composites under Corrosive Environment

摘要

Absorption and wet retention of flexural properties of E-glass flake/epoxy composites in corrosive environment were investigated. Composites were prepared at varied parameters: flake size, content, angle of reinforcement, and surface treatment (with or without silane coupling). Immersion was carried out for neat epoxy and composite specimens in 10 mass % sulfuric acid solution. Weight gain, solute penetration, and retention of flexural properties were monitored during immersion. Microstructure of composites was examined by coupled scanning electron microscopy/energy-dispersive X-ray spectroscopy (SEM/EDS). It was found that absorption of corrosive environment can be retarded on composites by proper flake alignment, low concentration of weak flake-matrix interfaces, improved bonding between flakes and polymer, and minimal voids/microcracks. High retention of wet flexural properties can also be attained for composites during immersion by applying the same conditions.