Effect of functionalized boron nanoparticles on the adhesively bonded single lap composite joints

In this study, the effects of hexagonal boron nitride (hBN) and hexagonal boron carbide (hB(4)C) nanoparticles on adhesive joints were investigated. In order to increase uniform distribution and adhesion of nanoparticles in epoxy adhesive, hBN nanoparticles were functionalized by using 3-(aminopropyl) triethoxysilane and hB(4)C nanoparticles were functionalized by using 3-(glycidyloxypropyl) trimethoxysilane compound. New nanocomposite adhesives were manufactured by adding functionalized nanoparticles into two different epoxy adhesives with different viscosity values (Araldite 2011 and MGS-LR285) at 0.5%, 1%, 2% and 3% proportions by weight. Single lap adhesive joints were produced with using the new enhanced nanocomposite adhesives and plain woven carbon fibre composites. In order to determine the mechanical properties of the adhesive joints, tensile test was carried out according to ASTM D1002 standard. When the results of the study were examined, it was seen that failure loads of adhesive joints increased by using hBN and hB(4)C nanoparticles. It can be seen that increase in failure loads depend on reinforcement ratio, types of boron particles and adhesives. The failure load of the joints increased 33% and 31% with the addition of 2 wt.% functionalized hBN and hB(4)C nanoparticles into Araldite 2011 adhesive, respectively. Similarly, the failure load of joints increased 31% and 52%, with the addition of 2 wt.% functionalized hBN and hB(4)C nanoparticles into MGS-LR285 adhesive, respectively.