Study of interface behavior on dielectric properties of epoxy-silica nanocomposites

This paper focused on epoxy-based nanodielectric composites with 5, 10, 15 and 20 wt.% of silica constituents prepared using simple mechanical mixing technique along with required curing cycles. The experimentally clarified dielectric constant (ε´) and dissipation factor (tanδ) are influenced by addition of nanosilica is discussed on the basis of the three core interface model proposed for interaction zones. The interfacial region (interaction zone) is likely to be pivotal in controlling properties, the bonding and crosslinking between epoxy-silica was characterized using Fourier transform Infrared Spectroscopy (FTIR) and Differential Scanning Calorimetery (DSC). In addition, Positron Annihilation Lifetime Spectroscopy (PALS) is used to determine free volume of nanocomposites.