Functionalized Hexagonal Boron Nitride Nanosheets/PMMA Nanocomposites for Structural Applications

Abstract

Till date, dispersion of nanofillers in polymer matrices remains a major challenge. Functionalization of nano-reinforcements prior to mixing is amongst the different ways to improve their dispersion and enhance their overall effect. In this study, hydroxylated functionalized hexagonal boron nitride nanosheets (h-BNNSs-OH) were prepared by hydroxylated assisted exfoliation for improved dispersion. Fourier transform infra-red, FTIR, spectroscopy was used to confirm of the presence of functional groups on h-BN. Polymer nanocomposites were prepared using hydroxyl (OH) functionalized and non-functionalized BNNSs with poly methyl methacrylate, PMMA, by solution mixing for comparative study. Structural and morphological characteristics were analyzed using X-ray Diffraction, XRD and scanning electron microscopy (SEM) respectively. Dimensional analysis of nanosheets was carried out using atomic force microscopy (AFM). Differential scanning calorimeter was used to study the polymer and nanosheets interactions. Mechanical behavior of the composites was studied by utilizing tensile testing. It was observed that tensile strength, Young’s modulus and strain at break of nanocomposites enhanced significantly. These nanocomposites can be used as a structural component for automobiles, unmanned aircrafts, construction, infrastructures and drone technology.