Effect of Strain Rate and Silica Filler Content on the Compressive Behavior of RTM6 Epoxy-Based Nanocomposites

The aim of this paper is to investigate the effect of strain rate and filler content on the compressive behavior of the aeronautical grade RTM6 epoxy-based nanocomposites. Silica nanoparticles with different sizes, weight concentrations and surface functionalization were used as fillers. Dynamic mechanical analysis was used to study the glass transition temperature and storage modulus of the nanocomposites. Using quasi-static and split Hopkinson bar tests, strain rates of 0.001 s(−1) to 1100 s(−1) were imposed. Sample deformation was measured using stereo digital image correlation techniques. Results showed a significant increase in the compressive strength with increasing strain rate. The elastic modulus and Poisson’s ratio showed strain rate independency. The addition of silica nanoparticles marginally increased the glass transition temperature of the resin, and improved its storage and elastic moduli and peak yield strength for all filler concentrations. Increasing the weight percentage of the filler slightly improved the peak yield strength. Moreover, the filler’s size and surface functionalization did not affect the resin’s compressive behavior at different strain rates.