Evaluation of the dynamic mechanical analysis, water absorption and chemical resistance properties of sulfur/epoxy composites

Abstract

Modified epoxy composites have become attractive materials for various applications including coatings, polymer concrete, and with asphalt as steel bridge pavement material. In such applications, it is important to maintain high chemical and mechanical resistance to avoid load cracking and corrosion resulted from chemicals exposures. The purpose of this study is to produce sulfur/epoxy composites with excellent mechanical and chemical properties and able to be applied easily in a wide range of applications. The epoxy resin was mechanically mixed with different percentages of sulfur and linseed oil to form sulfur/epoxy composites. Where sulfur is well incorporated into the epoxy matrix. The prepared composites were characterized by dynamic mechanical analysis including storage modulus, loss modulus, and tan delta. In addition, the chemical and water absorption resistance was tested including two hours boiling water absorption resistance and long-term water absorption resistance. The results showed enhanced storage modulus, glass transition temperature, chemicals, and water absorption resistance. Also, it is observed that as the concentration of sulfur increases, the mechanical and chemical resistance properties increase.