High performance nanocomposites from Ti3SiC2 MAX phase and phthalonitrile resin

A new kind of nanocomposites was prepared from a high performance phthalonitrile resin and Ti3SiC2 MAX phase ceramic nanoparticles. The synergistic combination of both phases led to nanocomposites with improved thermal and mechanical properties. For instance, the thermal conductivity and tensile properties of the neat resin were highly enhanced on adding more nanofillers contents. Moreover, the phthalonitrile resin toughness was enhanced by 123% at the maximum nanoparticles loading of 15 vol.%. The experimental investigations were also compared with predictions from Series, Halpin‐Tsai, and Kerner models and a full discussion was provided. A high resolution transmission electron microscope confirmed the ability of the MAX phase to create a conductive network, especially at high nanofillers amounts. SEM analyses of the tensile fractured surfaces revealed positive changes in the morphology, such as an increase in the roughness and amount of hackling as well as the formation of multiple micro‐cracks. The MAX phase also enhanced the thermal stability, stiffness, and glass transition temperature of the neat resin. This work confirms the superiority of the MAX phase ceramics over the traditional ones in enhancing the properties of the phthalonitrile resin and opens the way for further research in the field. POLYM. COMPOS., 39:3705–3711, 2018. © 2017 Society of Plastics Engineers