The mechanical properties of nanofilled resin-based composites: Characterizing discrete filler particles and agglomerates using a micromanipulation technique Curtis AR et al. - Agglomerated fillers exhibited up to four distinct fractures, while spheroidal and irregular particles underwent either a single fracture or did not fracture following micromanipulation. Z-tests highlighted failure of nanoclusters to be significant compared with spheroidal and irregular particles. The mean force at first fracture of the nanoclusters was greater than spheroidal and irregular particles. Likewise, the initial pseudo-modulus of stress of nanoclusters was also greater than spheroidal or irregular fillers. [more...]
