Improved tribological and thermo-mechanical properties of epoxy resin with micro-nano structured ZrO2/Ti3C2 particles

Inherent brittleness and poor wear resistance of epoxy resin severely restricts its practical application in many applications. In this present, a micro-nano structured ZrO2/Ti3C2 particle was employed to improve the tribological and thermo-mechanical properties of epoxy resin. The micro-nano structured ZrO2/Ti3C2 particles are synthesized by hydrothermal growth of nano-ZrO2 onto the surface of accordion-like Ti3C2, and the ZrO2/Ti3C2/epoxy composites are fabricated by solution blending and curing reaction. The surface morphology of ZrO2/Ti3C2 particles and the fracture surface of ZrO2/Ti3C2/epoxy composites were investigated. Test results indicated that the wear rate, storage modulus and glass transition temperature of epoxy resin is effectively improved by incorporation of ZrO2/Ti3C2 particles, maybe ascribing to the strong interfacial interaction between micro-nano structured ZrO2/Ti3C2 and epoxy matrix. In addition, the wear mechanism of ZrO2/Ti3C2/epoxy composites were further revealed by analyzing their worn surfaces and wear debris. This work provides a promising strategy for improving the tribological and thermo-mechanical properties of epoxy.

Automated summary

The study utilized micro-nano structured ZrO2/Ti3C2 particles to enhance the properties of epoxy resin, showing improvements in wear rate, storage modulus, and glass transition temperature. Additionally, the wear mechanism of the composites was further revealed through analysis of worn surfaces and wear debris, providing a promising strategy for enhancing the tribological and thermo-mechanical properties of epoxy.