Synergistic enhancement of fracture toughness in multiphase epoxy matrices modified by thermoplastic and carbon nanotubes

Herein, we report the development of multiphase epoxy-based nanocomposite blends with enhanced fracture toughness and controlled microstructure. The are based on bifunctional tetrafunctional epoxy resins, suitable for a wide range applications particularly as matrices advanced high temperature fibre reinforced composites glass transition temperatures exceeding 200° Celsius. comprise nanoscale (carbon nanotubes) microscale (phase separating thermoplastic) inclusions which together form unique multiscale morphologies capable dissipating crack energy through different absorption mechanisms. This work provides, first time, an in-depth investigation interactions between nano- micro-scale modifiers under appropriate conditions lead to synergistic enhancement in resin. A secondary agglomeration carbon nanotubes during curing was shown be suppressed by phase thermoplastic particles, leading well dispersed state, justifying increase resulting blends. molecular architecture matrix, particular, number epoxide functional groups, significant importance determining final microstructure modified following reaction.