Fabrication and characterization of iron oxide nanoparticles reinforced vinyl-ester resin nanocomposites

Robust magnetic vinyl ester resin nanocomposites reinforced with iron oxide (Fe2O3) nanoparticles were fabricated. The particle functionalization with a bi-functional coupling agent methacryloxypropyl-trimethoxysilane (MPS) was observed to have a significant effect on the curing process and subsequent physical properties of the nanocomposites. Particle functionalization favors the composite fabrication with a lower curing temperature as compared to the as-received nanoparticles filled vinyl ester resin nanocomposites. Thermo-gravimetric analysis showed an increased thermo-stability in the functionalized nanoparticles filled vinyl ester resin nanocomposites as compared to the unmodified nanoparticle filled counterparts. The more uniform particle dispersion and the chemical bonding between nanoparticle and vinyl ester resin matrix were found to contribute to the increased thermal stability and enhanced tensile strength. The nanoparticles become magnetically harder after incorporation into the vinyl ester resin matrix.