Novel POSS-Cerium Oxide Thermoset Nanocomposites For UV Degradation Mitigation

Document Type

Conference Proceeding

Publication Date

8-28-2015

School

Polymer Science and Engineering

Abstract

This project focused on developing ceria-POSS compounds for protecting epoxy-based composites against VUV radiation. Two types of ceria-POSS mixtures were created, introduced into an epoxy-amine system, and analyzed for physical and mechanical properties, and particulate morphology. The first combination was a novel attempted covalent bond between ceria and silanol groups on trisilanol phenyl POSS. The second mixture was utilizing intermolecular attractions between the epoxy functionality on glycidyl POSS and ceria. The covalent compound had issues with low reaction yield, but produced a thermally stable nanocomposite with potential for aggregation growth. The CeO2-glycidyl POSS mixture showed two distinct tan delta transitions, but did have significantly improved thermal degradation compared to the neat control. Microscopy showed good capture of the CeO2 by the glycidyl POSS, even with the lack of bonding. A noticeable layer of particulates formed at the lower mold-surface interface and AFM surface mapping revealing a homogenous surface of high modulus aggregates. This is promising for barrier coating applications. Selected coatings have been sent for VUV exposure testing, and will be analyzed for mass loss, surface morphology and any change in mechanical properties. Overall, this study will be an additional step in creating a cohesive, lightweight, barrier layer for protecting carbon fiber composites in the challenging low Earth orbit environment.

Publication Title

AIAA SPACE 2015 Conference and Exposition

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