Effect of seawater aging on mechanical, buckling, structural, and thermal properties of nano Al2O3 and TiO2-doped glass-epoxy nanocomposites

Abstract

Ensuring the stability of composite structures in the marine environment is crucial. The harsh and corrosive nature of marine conditions presents unique challenges, making maintenance a top priority. In this study, the impact of seawater aging on the mechanical, buckling, structural, and thermal properties of glass fiber-reinforced polymer nanocomposites was investigated. Composites were produced using the VARTM method with 2% nano Al2O3 and 2% nano TiO2. Aging was conducted in a seawater environment at room temperature for 120, 240, and 360 days. Mechanical properties, including tensile, compressive, flexural, impact, and buckling tests, were performed, and water absorption was determined. Structural analysis was carried out using SEM images. The experimental results indicated that the presence of nanoparticles minimized the effect of seawater. TiO2 preserved tensile strength by 10.33%, impact energy by 6.8%, and critical buckling load by 3.06% compared to the pure composite. Al2O3 reduced water absorption to 0.594% and preserved tensile strength by 6.67%, impact energy by 4.02%, and critical buckling load by 2%. Thermal test revealed an increase in thermal conductivity with aging, with the TiO2-doped composite exhibiting the smallest increase (14.66%). The significance of the obtained results was confirmed through ANOVA analysis. Highlights: Glass fiber-reinforced nanocomposite was produced with nano Al2O3 and TiO2. The effect of seawater aging was investigated. It showed that TiO2 nanoparticles are a good candidate against seawater aging. The experimental results showed statistical significance.