Effects of nanoclay on the properties of cardanol-modified-resol-epoxy-novolac composite material

• Published in: Journal of applied polymer science 2007-03, Vol.103 (5), p.3238-3242
• Main Authors: Nguyen, Le Huong, Nguyen, Dac Thanh, La, Thai Ha, Phan, Kim Xuyen, Nguyen, Thi Thanh Thao, Nguyen, Huu Nieu
• Format: Article
• Language: English
• Subjects: Applied sciences; Composites; Exact sciences and technology; Forms of application and semi-finished materials; nanoclay; particle-reinforcement; Polymer industry, paints, wood; polymer-matrix composites; resins; Technology of polymers
• ISSN: 0021-8995; 1097-4628
• DOI: 10.1002/app.24976

A nanocomposite based on nanoclay and resol that was modified with cardanol, a natural alkyl phenol, shows improvement for the glass‐fiber‐reinforced epoxy‐composite system. Dispersion of the nanocomposite was investigated by X‐ray, showing good results obtained by the in situ polymerization method. The mechanical properties of the final composites were improved by doping a 6 wt% of nanoclay in cardanol‐modified‐resol (CMR) into the epoxy matrix. The results show that a 15 wt% of CMR in epoxy is a most suitable ratio. Using polyamide as a curing agent instead of other traditional systems, such as anhydrides or amines for epoxy resin, overcame important limitations, further allowing for improved processability. The overall composite performance was enhanced. Additionally, the thermal stability of the system was investigated by thermal gravimetric analysis. © 2006 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Appl Polym Sci 103: 3238–3242, 2007