Nanostructured systems based on SBS epoxidized triblock copolymers and well-dispersed alumina/epoxy matrix composites

In the present research, the effect of addition of (1 wt.% and 3 wt.%) alumina nanoparticles (Al2O3) to epoxy modified by poly(styrene-b-butadiene-b-styrene) (SBS) epoxidized triblock copolymer was studied. The microstructure of final hybrid composites was studied with atomic force microscopy (AFM). Composites showed homogeneously dispersed Al2O3 nanoparticles in the epoxy matrix containing polystyrene (PS) microphase separated nanodomains. Dynamic mechanical analyses (DMA), flexural and fracture toughness investigations were carried out. The glass transition temperature of epoxy matrix has been retained unchanged by the addition of Al2O3 nanoparticles. The nanostructured epoxy systems based on SBS epoxidized triblock copolymer and well-dispersed Al2O3 nanoparticles allowed an increase in fracture toughness maintaining the transparency and stiffness of neat epoxy.