Highly dispersed nanoparticles (TiO2 and Clay) - UP resins with enhanced mechanical properties

The concept of nanoscale reinforcement provides opportunity for synthesis of polymer materials with unique properties. Behavior of Unsaturated Polyester (UP) and Unsaturated Polyester nanocomposites containing different nanofillers, such as TiO2, nanoclay (Cloisite 30B) were investigated. Samples were prepared with the nano content 1, 2, 4 wt % and their mechanical properties such as Tensile Strength, Tensile Modulus and Fracture Toughness have been considered. The fracture toughness of the nanocomposites significantly increased with increasing nanofillers, suggesting a toughening effect from the nanoparticles. Tensile strength and deflection at break also increased with increasing TiO2 and Clay loading. Nanofillers were dispersed into a UP matrix via blending using a mechanical stirrer. Transition Electron Microscopy (TEM) and Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM) data and Wide Angle X-Ray Diffraction(WAXD) were in support of the formation of partially delaminated nanocomposite material.