Abstract
The reinforcement effects of liquid exfoliated molybdenum disulphide (MoS2) nanosheets, dispersed in polystyrene (PS) matrix, are evaluated here. The range of composites (0 similar to 0.002 volume fraction (V-f.)MoS2-PS) is prepared via solution casting. Size selected MoS2 nanosheets (3 similar to 4 layers), with a lateral dimension. L. 0.5 similar to 1 mu m, have improved Young's modulus up to 0.8 GPa for 0.0002V(f) MoS2 - PS as compared to 0.2GPa observed for PS only. The ultimate tensile strength (UTS) is improved considerably (similar to x3) with a minute addition ofMoS(2) nanosheets (0.0002 V-f.). TheMoS(2) nanosheets lateral dimension and number of layers are approximated using atomic force microscopy (AFM). Thecomposites formation is confirmed using X- ray diffraction (XRD) and scanning electron microscopy (SEM). Theoretical predicted results (Halpin- Tsai model) are well below the experimental findings, especially at lower concentrations. Only atmaximum concentrations, the experimental and theoretical results coincide. The high aspect ratio ofMoS(2) nanosheets, homogeneous dispersion inside polymer, and their probable planar orientation are the possible reasons for the effective stress transfer, resulting in enhanced mechanical characteristics. Moreover, the micro- Vickers hardness (H-V) of theMoS(2) - PS is also improved from 19 (PS) to 23 (0.002 V-f MoS2 - PS) as MoS2 nanosheets inclusion may hinder the deformation more effectively.