In this work, functionally graded materials were synthesized by centrifugal technique at different
volume fractions 0.5, 1, 1.5, and 2% Vf with a rotation speed of 1200 rpm and a constant rotation time, T
= 6 min . The mechanical properties were characterized to study the graded and non-graded nanocomposites
and the pure epoxy material. The mechanical tests showed that graded and non-graded added alumina
(Al2O3) nanoparticles enhanced the effect more than pure epoxy. The maximum difference in impact strength
occurred at (FGM), which was loaded from the rich side of the nano-alumina where the maximum value was
at 1% Vf by 133.33% of the sample epoxy side. The flexural strength and Young modulus of the functionally
graded samples were enhanced by 43.69% and 52.74%, respectively, if loaded from the alumina-rich side.
On the other hand, when loading (FGM) from the epoxy side, the amount of decrease in bending resistance
was 122.4% while the improvement in bending modulus was 81.11% compared to pure epoxy. Scanning
electron microscopy (SEM) revealed the fracture surface of the impact samples and the gradient scattering of
nanoparticles in the epoxy matrix. Numerous applications can be used to manufacture the functionally
graded material by centrifugal casting method, including for the manufacture of gears and all bending
applications such as leaf springs.
