Scratch Behavior of Epoxy Nanocomposites Containing alpha-Zirconium Phosphate and Core-Shell Rubber Particles
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The effects of nanoscale core-shell rybber (CSR) par- ticles and -zirconiym phosphate (ZrP) nanoplatelet fill- ers on the scratch behavior of epoxy have been exam- ined using a newly established ASTM scratch testing method. The critical load for onset of microcrack for- mation is utilized to determine scratch resistance of the epoxy nanocomposites. Optical microscopy and scanning electron microscopy were performed to determine failure and fracture patterns caused by the scratch. The findings of this study suggest that the introduction of nanoparticles or nanoplatelets does not necessarily enhance the scratch resistance of epoxy. This implies that increases in ductility and fracture toughness alone, i.e., the epoxy/CSR case, and enhancements in modulus and tensile strength alone, i.e., the epoxy/ZrP case, will not necessarily improve scratch resistance of epoxy matrix. A combination of material property attributes is needed to prepare scratch resistant polymers. 2009 Society of Plastics Engineers.