Author Type

Graduate Student

Date of Award

2008

Document Type

Thesis

Publication Status

Version of Record

Submission Date

October 2026

Thesis/Dissertation Advisor [Chair]

Mahfuz, Hassan

Abstract

Sandwich composites provide excellent structural integrity for a variety of applications. In this study pristine and functionalized 30 nrn Silicon Carbide nanoparticles are infused into a low density polyurethane foam used for the inner core of the sandwich structure. The mechanical properties are characterized using compressive, tensile, and flexural tests. A plane-strain fracture test and a TSD (Tilted Sandwich Debond) test characterize the fracture properties of the foam and the coreskin interface. Thermal characterization is carried out using Dynamic Mechanical Analysis (DMA) and Thermo-Gravimetric Analysis (TGA). FTIR spectral analysis reveals changes in molecular bonding due to pristine and functionalized nanoparticle infusion. The fracture resistance of the foam is improved and the delamination strength of the sandwich construction with nanophased cores is dramatically improved. The TSD testing indicated that the G1c value rose from 0.14 kJ/m^2 in the neat foam to 0.56 kJ/m^2 with just 0.1 wt% of SiC nanoparticle inclusion reflecting an enhancement of almost 300%.

Extent

162 p.

Comments

College of Engineering and Computer Science|Thesis (M.S.)--Florida Atlantic University, 2008.|FAU Electronic Theses and Dissertations Collection|College of Engineering and Computer Science

Identifier

FA00012558

Format

pdf

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