Study on enhancing mechanical and thermal properties of carbon fiber reinforced epoxy composite through zinc oxide nanofiller

This study investigates the enhancement of mechanical and thermal properties of carbon fiber reinforced epoxy composites by incorporating zinc oxide (ZnO) nanofillers. The composites were developed by adding 3–15 g of ZnO nanoparticles into the epoxy matrix and were evaluated through experimental testing. The results showed significant improvements in mechanical performance, with the maximum tensile strength of 112.49 MPa and flexural strength of 114.82 MPa at the 15 g ZnO concentration. SEM analysis revealed a reduction in void content and improved fiber-matrix adhesion, enhancing load transfer. Thermal conductivity is 13.47 W/mK, while the coefficient of linear thermal expansion is 9.29 × 10−5/°C, indicating superior thermal stability. TGA analysis demonstrated a shift in decomposition temperature from 310 to 375 °C, confirming enhanced thermal stability. These results highlight the positive influence of ZnO nanofillers on both the mechanical and thermal properties of carbon fiber reinforced epoxy composites, making them more suitable for advanced structural applications.