Flame retardant behavior of epoxy / glass / multi walled carbon nanotubes

Multi walled carbon nanotubes ( MWNT ) and its functionalized derivatives ( carboxylated and amino functionalized nanotubes ) were incorporated into epoxy / glass fiber composites to reduce their flammability. Amino functionalized nanotubes (amino-MWNT) were prepared by acylation of carboxylated nanotube (MWNT-COOH) and then amidation with an amine-based curing agent. FTIR results proved the presence of amine and amide peaks in the functionalized nanotubes. Fiber reinforced epoxy composite samples containing various amounts of nanofiller were prepared by hand lay-up technique. The nano filler content varied from 0.3-1 wt% . Flammability properties of the samples were examined by measuring the LOI. the flame retardant performance was achieved through the formation of a relatively uniform network – structured floccule layer covering the entire sample surface without any cracks or gaps

Keywords:

Flame retardant , Fiber reinforced composite , Hand lay-up method , Carbon nanotube , Amino functionalization , Epoxy resin