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 Al2O3 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-Al2O3 nanocomposites. Nanocomposites displayed increased bending strength and impact strength due to the incorporation of Al2O3 nanoparticles. In addition, introduction of Al2O3 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 Al2O3 nanoparticles into epoxy matrix and loading. The influences of the Al2O3 nanoparticle incorporation into epoxy matrix resin are further described in terms of reinforcing methods.