Thermal and Mechanical Evaluation of Epoxy Resin Composites by Synthesis of Amine-Based Coupling Agent-Nano Silica Complex

A chemical route was developed for pre-treatment of silica nano particles, prior to introducing the filler into the epoxy matrix in order to improve the compatibility of these phases. Silica nanoparticles were reacted with n-(2-aminoethyl)-3-aminopropyltrimethoxysilane (AEAP) coupling agent. The nanophase organic-inorganic complex was introduced into an epoxy-based polymer system. Effect of complexation was investigated on dispersion quality of nanoparticles in polymer matrix, while the physical and thermal properties of synthesized composites were studied by thermal and mechanical analysis tests. Nanoparticulate fillers showed an increasing effect on the stress–strain and thermal resistance behavior of epoxy structure.