Improving the mechanical properties of p‐aramid fabrics and composites by developing ZnO nanostructures

Zinc oxide (ZnO) nanostructures have been grown on p‐aramid (Kevlar) fabric to improve interfacial properties of reinforced composites. Whiskerization technique was adopted to develop ZnO nanostructures, like an array of whiskers, on the surface of Kevlar fabric. Hydrothermal process was used which involves three steps i.e. functionalization, seed layer formation and growth of nanorods. Hexamethylenetetramine and zinc nitrate were used to grow ZnO nanostructures. It was found that pressure controlled autoclave was the best method for generation of nanostructures. It was also observed that the material (fabric) to solution ratio (M:S) significantly affected the morphology and density of developed nanostructures. Incorporation of ZnO nanostructures on Kevlar fabric improved the tensile and impact properties of Kevlar fabric and its composites. The deposition of nanostructures improved the interfacial properties by causing fibers to interlock with matrix thus allowing the formation of a graded interface between the two phases. POLYM. COMPOS., 39:3300–3306, 2018. © 2017 Society of Plastics Engineers