Investigating the Structural and Mechanical Properties of Boron Nitride Nanotubes and Their Polymer Nanocomposites
Abstract
This research project has focused on investigating the structural and mechanical properties of boron nitride nanotubes (BNNTs) in high temperature environments, and the mechanical properties of boron nitride nanotubes (BNNTs) reinforced polymer nanocomposites. Systematic and quantitative material characterization of BNNTs in high temperature environments demonstrated that BNNTs are capable of surviving up to 900 deg C in air and over 1300 deg C in inert gas and vacuum environments. The mechanical integrity of individual BNNTs is shown to remain intact at up to 900 deg C in air. The strengths of the interfaces formed by individual BNNTs with Poly(methyl methacrylate) (PMMA) and epoxy were characterized by using in situ electron microscopy single-nanotube pull-out techniques. BNNTs were found to form strong binding interfaces with polymers, which is in part attributed to the partially ionic nature of B-N bonds. This project also conducted exploratory studies on the reinforcing mechanisms of BNNTs in metal and ceramic nanocomposites. Particularly, substantial fracture toughness improvement for silica was demonstrated even with low concentrations of BNNTs. The research findings demonstrate that BNNTs are structurally and mechanically stable in high temperature environment
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Jan 18, 2019
- Accession Number
- AD1096965
Entities
People
- Changhong Ke
- Sang-hyon Chu
Organizations
- Binghamton University