Abstract Scope |
Structural nanocomposites possess a unique combination of materials properties that can meet the demanding requirements for aerospace applications. Polymer nanocomposites are extensively used for their established polymer manufacturing methods and high specific strength, but are often limited by reinforcement characteristics (e.g., size, shape, loading). This work presents a novel approach to control reinforcement morphology by substituting nanoparticles for nanofoams. Three SiOC nanofoams (spherical, wormlike, bicontinuous) were fabricated via self-assembly of block copolymers, and subsequently infiltrated with epoxy to create SiOC/epoxy nanocomposites. In-situ SEM compression testing, HAADF STEM tomography, and FEA were executed to probe structure-property relationships. Ultimately, tunability of mechanical properties—stiffness, toughness, and resilience—was demonstrated, and coupled with ease of fabrication, such reinforcement-controlled nanocomposites could be transformational across various platforms. |