Abstract: In recent advancements in material science, there is a trend toward replacing existing single-phase materials with composites for enhanced control over properties. This study focuses on developing a reinforced composite using Nano Nickel Oxide(n-NiO) within an epoxy resin matrix to enhance its mechanical properties. The aim is to investigate how the matrix material affects the density, hardness of the developed composites. Composites were fabricated using a stirred dispersion with resin casting, adhering to ASTM  standards for specimen preparation and testing. Tests were conducted at room temperature and under Cured conditions. Results indicate that incorporating n-NiO significantly improves the mechanical properties of epoxy resin. Magnetic stirring facilitated the homogeneous distribution of n-NiO within the epoxy matrix, followed by curing at ambient temperature. For comparative analysis, some composites underwent additional thermal curing at 80°C for 40 minutes. The impact of varying n-NiO concentrations (0.5%, 1%, 1.5%, and 2%) on the composite’s properties was assessed. The curing process employed K6 hardener in a weight ratio of 1:10. Mechanical attributes such as Density, Hardness  were evaluated. The composite with 1.5% n-NiO exhibited optimal enhancement in all measured properties compared to neat epoxy resin. This study concludes that the inclusion of n-NiO significantly augments the mechanical performance of the epoxy-based composite material.

Keywords: Mechanical, Nano Nickel Oxide(n-NiO), Epoxy Resin, Composite, Stirred Dispersion, Room Temperature, Oven Curing, ASTM

| DOI: 10.17148/IARJSET.2024.11660