Experimental investigation, modeling and optimization study on the mechanical properties of B4Cp/MWCNT/epoxy multi-scale hybrid composite

In this study, process parameters and mechanical properties of the multi-scale composite were investigated experimentally and predictably. Multi-scale material includes boron carbide particles and multi walled carbon nanotubes (MWCNTs) in the epoxy-based matrix. Both reinforcements were reinforced into the matrix with various rates simultaneously. Average three tensile strength and hardness values were determined. The tensile strength and hardness were enhanced thanks to high rate of B4C usage up to 54.09% and 2.54%, respectively. The microstructure of the hybrid composite was investigated by Scanning Electron Microscopy. Also, Fourier Transform Infrared Spectroscopy was used to interpret spectral bands. The experimental data were analyzed using optimization method. Optimal process parameters for tensile strength and interfacial properties were determined. The Analysis of Variance (ANOVA) was used to obtain most significant factor and optimum levels of parameters. Finally, it was observed that B4C ratio is the most dominant factor affecting the mechanical and thermal properties.