Testing Mechanical Properties of Polymer-Based Multi- Phase Particulate Composites

Polymer composites comprised of metallic particles distributed throughout a contiguous polymer matrix can often be modified to produce advanced composites that exhibit multifunctional characteristics. The properties of the particulate composites often depend on varying particle size, loading fractions, particle type, and the adhesion between the particulate and the matrix. Studies have shown that particle size, shape, and concentration, and properties of the constituents can affect mechanical properties. This work compared aluminum and nickel particles in PMMA thermoplastic prepared by injection molding, with the same particles in epoxy prepared in a cast-cure process.