Mechanical Properties of Novel Bismaleimide Nanocomposites with Si3N4 Nanoparticles

Low-viscosity novel bismaleimide was mixed with surface-modified Si3N4 nanoparticles to form nanocomposites using high shear and ultrasonic process. Impact strength, flexural strength, and storage modulus of the nanocomposites with various contents of Si3N4 nanoparticles were investigated. The mechanical properties were optimal with 3.0% mass fraction of surface-modified Si3N4 nanoparticles. In comparison to the neat bismaleimide resin the impact and flexural strengths of the nanocomposites increased by 52.3% and 20.9%, respectively, and the storage modulus showed a 54% increase at room temperature while the glass-transition temperature of nanocomposites was slightly decreased with the addition of Si3N4 nanoparticles. Surface-modified Si3N4 nanoparticles as fillers reinforced the toughness of the bismaleimide resin, which was confirmed by scanning electronic microscope.