@inbook{0e4cca13307346f281697ab532f81f70,
title = "Processing and Microstructure of Syntactic Foams",
abstract = "This chapter discusses processing methods for reinforced syntactic foams and the effect of processing parameters on the structure and properties of syntactic foams. Enhancement of the mechanical properties of syntactic foams can be achieved by incorporation of micro- or nano-scale reinforcements into the matrix material. Dispersion of nanoparticles and nanotubes and nanofibers in polymer resins is challenging. Mechanical, shear, and ultrasonic mixing techniques have been used for obtaining wetting and dispersion of nanoscale reinforcement in the matrix. Nanoparticle reinforcement may also provide unintentional effect of increased matrix porosity by stabilizing gas bubbles in polymer matrix, if the processing method is not carefully designed. The processing methods are also required to be efficient in promoting wetting of reinforcement by the matrix resin, breaking clusters without fracturing the reinforcement material, and obtaining uniform distribution of reinforcement in the matrix resin. In addition, the hollow particles should not be excessively fractured during the manufacturing process. This chapter provides an overview of various processing methods and the issues encountered during fabrication of reinforced syntactic foams.",
keywords = "Agglomeration, Carbon nanofiber, Carbon nanotube, Dispersion, Exfoliation, Hollow particle, Matrix void, Nanoscale material, Porosity, Reinforcement, Stir mixing, Syntactic foam",
author = "Nikhil Gupta and Dinesh Pinisetty and Shunmugasamy, {Vasanth Chakravarthy}",
note = "Publisher Copyright: {\textcopyright} 2013, The Author(s).",
year = "2013",
doi = "10.1007/978-3-319-01243-8_3",
language = "English (US)",
series = "SpringerBriefs in Materials",
publisher = "Springer",
pages = "19--24",
booktitle = "SpringerBriefs in Materials",
}