Publication

Abstract : This study methodically investigates the influence of incorporating nano-SiC (silicon carbide) particulates in varying weight percentages (1, 2.5, and 5.5 wt.%) into a PEEK (polyether ether ketone) matrix. The preparation involved a mechanical mixing of PEEK powders and SiC nanoparticles through ball milling, followed by melt casting in an electric furnace and solidification at room temperature. Thermal properties were assessed using differential scanning calorimetry (DSC), which measured the glass transition temperature (Tg), melting point (Tm), and crystallinity percentage. The results showed that adding 1 wt.% SiC nanoparticles notably increased the Tg to 171 °C, the Tm to 348 °C, and the crystallinity to 44.49%, compared to the pure PEEK polymer. As the SiC content increased beyond 1 wt.%, only marginal increases in Tg and Tm were observed, whereas crystallinity percentage declined. Scanning electron microscopy (SEM) images confirmed a uniform dispersion of SiC nanoparticles throughout the PEEK matrix, while Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR) validated the presence of PEEK functional groups within the composites. This analysis underscores the potential for optimizing thermal characteristics in PEEK/SiC composites for high-performance electrical applications by controlling nanoparticle content.