Microstructure and properties of SiO2 matrix reinforced by BN nanotubes and nanoparticles

In order to overcome intrinsic brittleness and poor mechanical properties of SiO2, two kinds of hexagonal boron nitride (h-BN) (boron nitride nanotubes (BNNTs) and boron nitride nanoparticles (BNNPs)) were employed to reinforce SiO2 matrix. The mechanical properties, relative density and dielectric constant of the composites were investigated detailedly. Compared to the monolithic SiO2, 5 wt% BNNTs/SiO2 and 5 wt% BNNPs/SiO2 composites exhibited excellent mechanical properties and low dielectric constant. Furthermore, phase composition and microstructure of the composites were analyzed thoroughly by X-ray diffraction, transmission electron microscopy, and field emission scanning electron microscopy.

► Microstructure and properties of BNNTs(BNNPs)/SiO2 composites was reported.
► The influence mechanism of both reinforments on properties was studied.
► BNNTs were used to reinforce SiO2 matrix with improved properties firstly.