Effective reinforcement of amino-functionalized molybdenum disulfide on epoxy-based composites via strengthened interfacial interaction

The effects of amino-functionalized molybdenum disulfide (f-MoS 2 ) on the curing activity and mechanical properties of epoxy-based composites were evaluated. The f-MoS 2 was prepared through the mild reaction between mercapto-ethylamine and the exfoliated MoS 2 . Benefiting from the universal binding ability of amino groups, good dispersion of f-MoS 2 in epoxy matrix was achieved. Studies of the curing behavior of epoxy composites showed that the curing temperature and heat release during the curing process of epoxy composites with MoS 2 was lower than that of neat epoxy and composites with MoS 2 , indicating a decreased activation energy. The f-MoS 2 containing amino groups on its surface was revealed can react with epoxy matrix and enhance the curing reactions like a co-curing agent of amine-type curing agent. The mechanical properties and thermal stability of the epoxy were both enhanced by f-MoS 2 . The storage modulus of the EP/f-MoS 2 composites was about 60% higher than that of EP/MoS 2 composites, which was attributed to the improved dispersion of f-MoS 2 in matrix and the strengthened interfacial interactions between f-MoS 2 with epoxy than that of the neat MoS 2 .