Sharif Digital Repository

Both natural montmorilonite (CN) and organically modified montmorilonite (CB) improved significantly the mechanical performance of novolac phenolic resin (PF)/woven glass-fiber (GF) composites due to their nanodispersion and good interfacial interaction with the matrix. It was revealed that the incorporation of 2.5 wt% of the clays enhances the elastic modulus up to 38% for CN and 43% for CB. Aging of PF/GF composites at various aqueous solutions, i.e. water, brine and acidic environments, increased stiffness of the composite (∼100-250% increase in elastic modulus) due to possible secondary crosslinking caused by water molecules and hydroxyl groups of PF resin. However, aging led to the... 

Ternary nanocomposites of polypropylene/polyamide 6/layered silicate were prepared through three different processing procedures. X-ray diffraction and transmission electron microscopy were used to study the nanostructure of the samples, and tensile and impact strength measurements were conducted to assess the mechanical properties. It was shown that processing route has a significant effect on the delamination of clay platelets. Fully exfoliated nanostructure was achieved through a certain two-step processing route. Compatibilization of the blends affected microstructure as well as nanostructure. Mechanical properties were affected by changing the processing route, to a great degree....