Nano-aluminum oxide as a reinforcing material for thermoplastic adhesives

Nanoparticles of aluminum oxide were used to improve bonding strength of PVA (polyvinyl acetate) in wet conditions and elevated temperatures. Shear strength of wood joints was improved by inclusion of nanoparticles to PVA in all conditions. The improvement on performance of PVA in dry state by adding nanoparticles could be measured in terms of wood failure. In wet conditions and at elevated temperature, nanoparticles significantly increased shear strength of wood joints. Thermal stability of PVA was affected by nanoparticles as well. Nanostructure studies showed that dispersing well nanoparticles in PVA is a crucial step to obtain nanocomposites with superior properties.