The Effect of Reduced Gravity on Ultrasonic Nanoparticle Dispersion (ERGUND)

Abstract

Nanoparticle dispersion is an increasingly critical field, as composite materials become a more viable option for improved performance. While the properties of a single material can be well suited for the objective, combining several materials that possess advantageous properties can drastically improve the performance of a component. Composite materials can fulfill this need, but overall properties depend on the quality of its constituents. In this experiment, the quality of nanoclay Cloisite 30B exfoliation and dispersion in an Epon 828 epoxy matrix is sought to be improved by acoustic cavitation. This is attempted using a sonicator in a reduced-gravity environment to eliminate the buoyancy force. Buoyancy is a driving factor when cavitation occurs and eliminating it will result in higher energy cavitation. This higher energy cavitation will result in smaller sized nanoparticles that are better dispersed throughout the liquid. An even dispersion will cause the material to have better mechanical properties as shown in a tensile test than samples created in a 1G environment. However, the results are inconclusive. This discrepancy is attributed to the fact that the samples were not cured immediately after sonication. While the experiment yielded negative results, this work is intended to provide inspiration for future novel in-space manufacturing techniques.