Improving physical, mechanical and interfacial properties of glass fiber composites using modified resin system with amine‐functionalized and silanized graphene nanoparticles

Abstract Amine functionalization and silanization of graphene nanoparticles (GNPs) facilitate better interlocking interaction with the polymer matrix, leading to the development of high‐performance laminated composites for structural applications. Hence, in this article, the effect of amine functionalization and silanization of GNPs on the physical, mechanical, interfacial, and nano‐indentation mechanisms of functionalized GNPs (F‐GNPs) infused glass fiber reinforced bio‐epoxy polymer composites (GFRPCs) is investigated. To this end, different weight fractions of GNPs (0.5%, 1.0%, & 1.5%) with various oxidation times (24, 48, 72 h) have been considered for assessment. The interfacial interaction of normal and functionalized GNPs has been assessed through field emission scanning electron microscope (FESEM) and atomic force microscopy (AFM). The homogeneous dispersion, crystallization, and exfoliation of GNPs have been analyzed with Fourier transform infrared (FTIR), Raman spectrometer, x‐ray diffraction (XRD), and x‐ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS). The results of FESEM and AFM revealed successful exfoliation of GNPs occurring at 48 h of oxidation. The characterization, such as FTIR, XRD, and XPS analyses, revealed that the functionalized GNPs provided better dispersion and interfacial interaction with the epoxy matrix. Further, the inclusion of functionalized GNPs improved the tensile strength, flexural strength, and interlaminar shear stress by 127.44%, 132.01%, and 23.79%, respectively, compared to neat glass fiber composites. In addition, a significant enhancement in the interfacial transverse properties of hybrid GFRPCs was achieved. Highlights The effect of functionalization and silanization of GNPs on GFRPCs is investigated. Physical, interfacial and mechanical properties are studied. Oxidation has been done at oxidation times of 24, 48, and 72 h. Interfacial interaction of normal and functionalized GNPs is compared. Enhanced properties obtained with the functionalization of GNPs and silanization.