Experimental investigation on mechanical properties of hybrid nano-composite based on epoxy/ graphene nano-platelets/ carboxylated acrylonitrile butadiene rubber

In this study, mechanical properties of nano-composites based on epoxy reinforced with graphene nano-platelets and XNBR is investigated. Fillers were added to the epoxy matrix in 0, 0.75 and 1.5 wt. % levels for graphene nano-platelets and 0, 5 and 10 wt. % levels for XNBR. Samples were prepared by hand method and mechanical tests were performed in room temperature to determine tensile strength, tensile modulus, elongation at break and impact strength. FESEM images were used to determine the state of graphene nano-platelets dispersion. It was observed that graphene nano-platelets had well dispersion in 0.75 wt.% but in high loading of them, aggregation was observed. Graphene nano-platelets decreased tensile strength and elongation. On the other hand, enhanced tensile modulus and impact strength by 20% and 23%, respectively. Adding XNBR declined tensile strength and modulus by ~18% and increased impact strength and elongation by considerable amount of 130% and 46%, respectively. Simultaneous presence of graphene nano-platelets and XNBR in epoxy matrix decreased tensile strength by ~10%. On the other hand, tensile modulus, elongation and impact strength increased by 6%, 29% and 143% compared to neat epoxy.