The deformation of hybrid-particulate composites

The deformation behaviour of a hybrid-particulate epoxy composite has been examined. The Young's modulusE and yield stress σγ have been determined as a function of temperature and volume fraction of rigid glass spheres, for both a simple epoxy matrix and a two-phase epoxy toughened by the presence of rubber particles. In addition, the effect of improving the particle-matrix interface with a silane bonding agent has been studied. It is found that there is a steady increase in Young's modulus with the volume fraction of spheres for all systems. In contrast, the yield stress is only found to increase with the volume fraction of rigid particles when the epoxy matrix is not toughened with rubber. It is found that the yield stress is virtually independent of particle volume fraction when a rubber-modified epoxy matrix is employed. Finally, it is found that for all compositions tested the Young's modulus and yield stress increase with increasing temperature. The overall behaviour has been discussed in terms of existing theories concerning the deformation behaviour of amorphous polymers.

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