Mechanical Properties of Novel Bismaleimide Nanocomposites with Si 3 N 4 Nanoparticles

Low-viscosity novel bismaleimide was mixed with surface-modified Si 3 N 4 nanoparticles to form nanocomposites using high shear and ultrasonic process. Impact strength, flexural strength, and storage modulus of the nanocomposites with various contents of Si 3 N 4 nanoparticles were investigated. The mechanical properties were optimal with 3.0% mass fraction of surface-modified Si 3 N 4 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 Si 3 N 4 nanoparticles. Surface-modified Si 3 N 4 nanoparticles as fillers reinforced the toughness of the bismaleimide resin, which was confirmed by scanning electronic microscope.