Enhancing Epoxy Nanocomposites for High-Impact Applications: Dynamic Performance of Carbon Black-Reinforced DGEBA Under SHPB Testing

This study presents a novel investigation into the dynamic mechanical behavior of epoxy nanocomposites reinforced with carbon black (CB) nanoparticles. While the static mechanical enhancement of DGEBA epoxy by CB has been widely reported, its performance under high strain rate loading remains insufficiently explored. To address this gap, epoxy nanocomposites containing 1, 2, and 5 wt.% CB were fabricated and tested using a Split Hopkinson Pressure Bar (SHPB) at impact pressures of 1.5, 2, and 4 bar. The results demonstrate that a 1 wt.% CB concentration provides the best balance of stiffness, strength, and toughness without compromising elasticity. At this level, the material exhibited a 60% increase in maximum stress and a 50.8% increase in toughness compared to neat epoxy at 1.5 bar. In contrast, 5 wt.% CB led to nanoparticle agglomeration, reducing energy absorption and elastic recovery. Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM) and numerical simulations confirmed the influence of CB dispersion on mechanical performance. This work contributes a comprehensive understanding of CB-reinforced epoxy systems under dynamic loading, offering new insights for advanced structural applications requiring impact resistance.