I need to prepare epoxy/clay nanocomposite using sonication method. Among the parameters available in a sonicator for selection, which are the critical parameters that effect dispersion ? Amplitude (0 to 100% of the maximum value), output power and pulse on/off duration, sonication time (1-10 hr) are the parameters that can be varied. Considering the heat generation and tendency of damaging the nano materials, my guess is to have low to medium amplitude, power and sonication time. May be I will go with 50% amplitude, medium output power and say 5 hrs of time duration. But how to decide on the pulse on/off ? what should be single pule duration, 1s or 2s or can it be continuous ?
Dear Murali Kakunje,
Sonication parameters are not complicated as you think, even if you have heat sensitive temperature NPs, you can just use water base. I think 50% amplitude coupled with long time would be perfect for epoxy/clay. But, I don`t recommend continuous pluses, the on/off mode enable heat dissipation and sufficient relaxation time for nano composite formation.
Use water bath and add continuously ice (cool water) so that temperature may not changes
Good question and two good answers. I totally agree with Professor Abd Elhamid Mohamed Abd Elhamid and Professor Kishore Kumar Sriramoju. Good luck
- Badges
- Science topic