Effects of silica nanoparticles on tribology performance of poly(Epoxy Resin-Bismaleimide)-based nanocomposites

摘要

Introduction of small nanoparticles into polymer matrix increases the mechanical, tribological, and thermal properties of nanocomposites. In this study, poly(epoxy resin-bismaleimide-diaminodiphenylmethane) (EP-BMI-DDM) copolymers filled with silica nanoparticles (SNPs) were successfully fabricated through in situ suspension polymerization. To enhance the interfacial adhesion of silica particles to the polymer matrix, the nanoparticles were organo-modified by silane coupling agent. Results of tensile strength test revealed that increased toughness of the composites was attributed to the microcavitations induced by organo-modified SNPs (OSNPs). Proper loadings of OSNPs can play a critical role in antifriction performance, with optimal friction coefficient of 0.17 (2 wt% OSNPs content). Thermostabilities of the nanocomposites were characterized by differential thermal gravimetric analysis. At the maximum rate of weight loss of EP-BMI-DDM/3 wt% OSNP, the temperature measured 452 degrees C, which is 52 degrees C higher than that of pure EP-BMI-DDM copolymers (400 degrees C). The produced nanocomposites feature good thermostability and self-lubrication can be widely used as wearable material under severe working conditions with higher temperature. POLYM. ENG. SCI., 59:274-283, 2019. (c) 2018 Society of Plastics Engineers