Abstract:
This article aims to present the study of eff ects of two additive materials to reinforce
materials an epoxy resin matrix, a widely used thermosetting polymer. Epoxy is used in
many applications nowadays, such as in fi ber glass works, automotive parts, electrical
electrodes, coating of surfaces and fl ooring materials. The fi rst additive material is fl y ash,
a coal combustion by-products from power plants. The second material comprises
Chain-like Carbon Nano-Onions (CLCNOs) which are synthesized from a fl ame burning
process. Using strengthening advantages of fl y ash (silica and alumina) and hardness from
CLCNOs, the bulk volume, stiff ness and hardness of the resin can be increased. These CLCNOs
are new chain-structure Nano carbons with interesting mechanical properties in comparison
with other additives or reinforced fi bers.