This work analyzes the impact of MgO nanoparticles on the properties of an epoxy resin solution with uniform structure and particular degree of cure synthesized by the reaction of epoxy resin and pyromellitic dianhydride. Various concentrations of epoxy/MgO nanocomposites were fabricated by mechanical mixing, ultrasonication-based dispersion and casting processes. FTIR results have shown clear differences in the vibrations of C-H, epoxide rings, and main amine N-H groups. This confirms the interaction between MgO particles and the epoxy polymer matrix. X-ray diffraction analysis detected prominent peak at 18.35 degrees, along with additional ones at 43.44 degrees and 62.56 degrees, associated with the (200) and (220) planes of MgO crystal, confirming the incorporation of nanofillers. Results from DSC analysis showed that MgO increased Tg values up to a maximum at a moderate content of nanofiller, then declined. FESEM images suggested uniform distribution of MgO nanoparticles at low contents; however, aggregation was noted at 0.75 wt% filler content. The nanocomposite with 0.15 wt% of MgO nanoparticles demonstrated the best characteristics among all samples. It had maximum tensile strength of 23.66 MPa, flexural strength of 47.1 MPa, and Shore D hardness of 81.
