Abstract

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This study examines the influence of nanoclay loading on the hardness properties of epoxy composites. Nanocomposites were fabricated using varying weight ercentages of nanoclay and epoxy via the hand layup method with an open mould. Mechanical characterisation was carried out using a Rockwell hardness tester, while the dispersion and morphology of nanoclay particles within the epoxy matrix were analysed using Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM). The composite containing 4 wt.% nanoclay (nanoclay-to-epoxy ratio of 4:96) exhibited the highest hardness value of 109.60 HRA, representing a 65% improvement over the control sample (neat epoxy). The results demonstrate that the incorporation of nanoclay significantly enhances the hardness of epoxy, with hardness values increasing proportionally with nanoclay content up to an optimum level. Beyond this saturation point, a decline in hardness was observed, attributed to particle agglomeration and poor interfacial adhesion between the nanoclay and the epoxy matrix. Overall, the findings establish nanoclay as an effective reinforcement material for epoxy polymers where improved hardness is required.

Keywords: Nanotechnology, Nanocomposite, Epoxy, Nanoclay, Hardness and SEM