Design of multifunctional energetic structural composites: A preliminary study on an epoxy-rubber matrix with exothermic mixture reinforcements

Abstract

A new multifunctional energetic structural composite was designed in the frame of a common research project for potential applications as structural energetic materials in aeronautical engineering. A mixture of structural and energetic functions can be achieved using different reinforcements in rubber-epoxy composites and this type of design give an exigent task. The mechanical and physical properties of the various composite systems containing Nickel and extremely fin aluminium and powders in a epoxy-rubber matrix were studied to investigate their mechanical physical properties. Dynamic (impact choc) tests and static compression tests have been carried out to understand failure response of these composites. Microstructural characterization can reveal that micro-sized Ni and Al stayed on homogeneously and intimately mixed within the epoxy matrix. Dielectric properties and dielectric loss angle tangent (tan delta) were investigated using a Dielectric Thermal Analyzer (DETA). Viscoelastic properties have been evaluated by microindentation tester and also surface wear resistance were measured by scratch test device. © The Society for Experimental Mechanics, Inc. 2014.