Enhancing multifunctional performance of unidirectional woven glass fabric composites by electrostatic self-assembly of nano TiO 2 fillers

The development of multifunctional fiber-reinforced composites (FRCs) has attracted significant attention owing to the increasing demand for lightweight materials possessing improved mechanical performance, thermal stability, and environmental durability. In this study, glass fabric epoxy composites (GFCs) containing nominal TiO2 nanoparticle loadings of 0, 2, 4, 6, 8, and 10 wt. % were fabricated using an electrostatic self-assembly (ESA) assisted surface modification technique followed by compression moulding. The fabricated composites were systematically characterized using field emission scanning electron microscopy (FESEM), Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR), tensile and flexural testing (ASTM D3039 and ASTM D790), thermogravimetric/differential thermal analysis (TGA/DTA), and water absorption measurements to evaluate their microstructural, mechanical, thermal, and moisture resistance characteristics. FESEM qualitatively confirmed the successful incorporation of TiO2 nanoparticles, while FTIR analysis indicated that the nanoparticles did not alter the fundamental chemical structure of the epoxy matrix. Among the investigated formulations, the composite containing a nominal 6 wt. % TiO2 loading exhibited the most favourable combination of tensile strength, flexural strength, modest improvement in thermal stability, and the lowest average water absorption. The results demonstrate that the ESA-assisted approach is an effective surface modification technique for incorporating TiO2 nanoparticles into glass fabric composites. The developed composites show potential for lightweight structural panels, automotive interior components, protective covers, marine secondary structures, and aerospace interior panels, where enhanced mechanical performance, moisture resistance and moderate thermal stability are desirable.