IMPACT PROPERTIES OF POLYMERIC NANOCOMPOSITES WITH DIFFERENT SHAPE OF NANOPARTICLES

Results of a microstructure assessment and impact testing of thermoplastic nanocomposites are presented in the paper. Experiments were focused on influence of different structure parameters of fillers on toughness of thermoplastics composites. Mechanical properties of nanocomposites were compared with neat polymeric matrix in all cases. Montmorillonite, halloysite, carbon nanotubes and precipitated calcium carbonate were used to reinforce polymeric matrix. The above-mentioned four reinforcing materials are possible to sort to three groups in accordance with shape: nanoplatelets (montmorillonite – MMT), nanofibres (halloysite nanotubes – HNT, carbon nanotubes – CNT) and isometric nanoparticles (calcium carbonate). Determination of impact behaviour was conducted at Charpy impact tester and instrumented falling-weight machine. Results show a decrease of toughness of PA6/MMT, PA6/HNT and PA6/CNT nanocomposites in comparison with a neat PA6. Toughness of these materials strongly depends on moisture content. Nanofillers doesn’t influence toughness of polypropylene copolymer in negative way. Influence of a reinforcing particles and adhesion between matrix-nanofiller to embrittlement of nanocomposite will be discussed.