TiO₂/Halloysite hybrid filler reinforced epoxy nanocomposites

TiO₂ nanoparticles and Halloysite nanotubes were used together to modify epoxy matrix. They were introduced into the matrix using two different approaches: (a) both TiO₂ nanoparticles and Halloysite nanotubes were incorporated into epoxy in their original form; (b) TiO₂/Halloysite hybrid prepared by hydrothermal reaction, was incorporated into epoxy. Morphological studies of the nanocomposites were carried out using atomic force microscopy, scanning electron microscopy, and transmission electron microscopy. Tensile and nanoindetation studies were carried out to evaluate the mechanical performance of the nanocomposites. Finally, the dynamic mechanical analysis and thermal degradation properties of the nanocomposites were evaluated. It was found that, the nano‐structures of HNT surrounded with TiO₂ nanotubes in TiO₂/Halloysite hybrid filler eliminated the unfavorable agglomeration of TiO₂ nanoparticles in the epoxy matrix and thereby avoiding the deterioration of mechanical properties. However, the hybrid nanostructure in the ternary nanocomposites did not have an evident effect on the glass transition temperature and thermal stability of epoxy matrix. POLYM. COMPOS., 39:E2426–E2435, 2018. © 2018 Society of Plastics Engineers