Mechanical properties and tribological performance of epoxy/Al2O3 nanocomposite.

In this research, a systematic study has been directed to evaluate epoxy matrix nanocomposite performance of Al 2 O 3 nanoparticles incorporated into epoxy resin. An ultrasonic mixing process was utilized to achieve homogenous dispersion of these nanoparticles into epoxy resin. Several mechanical and tribological tests, such as three-point bending test, Izod impact test and pin on ring wear test, were performed to examine mechanical properties and wear performance of epoxy-Al 2 O 3 nanocomposites. Nanocomposites displayed increased bending strength and impact strength due to the incorporation of Al 2 O 3 nanoparticles. In addition, introduction of Al 2 O 3 nanoparticles into epoxy resin matrix at low values resulted in significant reduction of wear rate and coefficient of friction. Such effects could be attributed to dispersion of Al 2 O 3 nanoparticles into epoxy matrix and loading. The influences of the Al 2 O 3 nanoparticle incorporation into epoxy matrix resin are further described in terms of reinforcing methods. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]