Influence of SiC/Si3N4 Hybrid Nanoparticles on Polymer Tensile Properties. (31st October 2013)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Rangari, Vijaya K.; Yousuf, M.; Jeelani, Shaik
• Other Names: Luo Zhiping Academic Editor.
• Is Part Of: Journal of composites. Volume 2013(2013)
• Publication Date: 2013-10-31
• Subjects: Composite materials -- Periodicals; Composite materials; Periodicals; Electronic journals; 620.118
• DOI: 10.1155/2013/462914
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 2356-7252

Abstract

Abstract : Nanostructured silicon carbide (SiC)/silicon nitride (Si3 N4 ) hybrid nanoparticles exhibit a high-potential for reinforcement of polymers. In the present investigation, silicon carbide (β -SiC) nanoparticles (~30 nm) were sonochemically coated on acicular silicon nitride (~100 nm × 800 nm) particles to increase the thermal and mechanical properties of Nylon-6 nanocomposite fibers. To produce Nylon-6/(SiC/Si3 N4 ) nanocomposite fibers, we have followed a two-step process. In the first step, SiC nanoparticles were coated on Si3 N4 nanorods using a sonochemical method and Cetyltrimethylammonium Bromide surfactant. In the second step, the SiC coated Si3 N4 hybrid nanoparticles were blended with Nylon-6 polymer and extruded in the form of nanocomposite polymer fibers. The nanocomposite fibers were uniformly stretched and stabilized using a two-set Godet roll machine. The diameters of the extruded neat Nylon-6 and SiC/Si3 N4 /Nylon-6 nanocomposite fibers were measured using a scanning electron microscope and then tested for their tensile and thermal properties. These results were compared with the neat Nylon-6 polymer fibers. These results clearly indicate that the as-prepared nanocomposite polymer fibers are much higher in tensile strength (242%) and Young's modulus (716%) as compared to the neat polymer fibers.