Optimization of tensile properties of epoxy aluminum particulate composites using regression models
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Date
2018
Journal Title
Journal ISSN
Volume Title
Publisher
Elsevier
Abstract
Aluminum particles (sourced from aluminum can wastes) were incorporated into diglycidyl ether of
bisphenol A (DGEBA) cured with 1,3-diethanamine benzene hardener. Phases occupying the infusible
cross linked-developed epoxy composite structures were identified and their spatial arrangements were
also examined. The mechanical property tests conducted on the developed epoxy composites include tensile,
flexural, impact toughness and micro hardness tests. The density of the epoxy composite sample was
determined using Archimedes’ principle. Regression models were developed, confirmed and validated to
appraise effects of aluminum particle sizes and percentage weight on the tensile strength. XRD results
indicated a chemical reaction between epoxy system and aluminum particles. There is a fair homogenous
distribution of the second phase particles within the developed epoxy structure. Deductions from
mechanical property tests revealed epoxy/10% aluminum nanoparticle composite (E/10%Alnp) having
optimal tensile strength of 18.58 Nmm 2 with flexural strength of 130.87 Nmm 2, impact energy of
16.30 J and micro hardness value of 12.03 HV. The mechanical property values of E/10% Alnp Nanocomposite
are comparable with those of existing bumper materials. Moreover, the regression models
agree with experiments.
Description
Keywords
Epoxy, Bumper, Tensile properties, Nano-composites, Aluminum particulate