Comparative Study of the Dynamic Properties of Epoxy/Carbon Fiber Composites Reinforced with Different Nanofillers Using SHPB

The requirement of developing composite materials with distinct mechanical, thermal and electrical characteristics is the reason that drives the advancement of reinforced polymers. This introduced nanoparticle fits the reinforcing criteria by providing material with mechanical characteristics that are superior to those of the matrix (rigidity, strength, damage resistance, etc.). However, it has been observed that these characteristics depend on the shape, type and nature of the added nanofiller. This study is aimed at providing an in-depth assessment of the mechanical properties and resilience to damage of carbon fiber-based epoxy composite materials (CFRP) containing similar weight percentages (0%, 0.5% and 1%) of either graphene nanoplatelets (GNP) or carbon nanotubes (CNT). Dynamic testing was carried out with a Split Hopkinson Pressure Bar (SHPB) at a range of pressures (1.4, 1.6 and 1.8). Examination of the test data showed that the addition of various Nano-reinforcements led to substantial improvements in ultimate strength and stiffness, while reducing the delaminated zone, compared with the performance of the carbon/epoxy composite. However, GNP was shown to perform better in terms of improving mechanical properties and minimizing fracture propagation.