(217ep) Magnetic Epoxy-Magnetite Nanocomposites

Magnetic epoxy resin nanocomposites reinforced with magnetite (Fe₃O₄) nanoparticles (NPs) have been fabricated with different nanoparticle loading levels. The surface functionality of the NPs was tuned by the introduced conductive polypyrrole (PPy) via surface initiated polymerization (SIP) method. The rheological behaviors of the epoxy resin suspended with different nanoparticle loadings were systemically investigated. The thermal stability of these cured epoxy nanocomposites was studied by thermogravimetric analysis (TGA). The fracture surface was characterized by scanning electron microscope (SEM). The mechanical properties including tensile test and dynamic mechanical analysis (DMA) were tested. The enhanced mechanical properties of the epoxy nanocomposites filled with the functionalized NPs were observed in the tensile test compared with the pure epoxy. The flame retardant property of the epoxy nanocomposites was studied by Microscale Combustion Calorimeter (MCC). The magnetic properties were studied and the linking mechanism between NPs and epoxy through PPy will be reported in this talk.