Effects of mixed micro and nano silica particles on the dynamic compressive performances of epoxy adhesive

Abstract

Effects of mixed micro and nano silica particles on the dynamic stiffness, stress transmissibility, and energy absorption of the epoxy composite were investigated using the split Hopkinson pressure bars. It was found that the dynamic stiffness significantly increased with silica weight fraction regardless of its sizes and composition ratio. However, the effect became less significant as the temperature approached Tg. It was also found that mixed micro and nano silica particles decreased both the epoxy dynamic stiffness and the stress transmissibility, and increased the energy absorption. The optimum composition ratio was found to maximize the energy absorption while maintaining high stiffness performance of epoxy. The results obtained in the present work can be used to design the performance of epoxy/silica adhesive for appropriate applications.