| Abstract | Boron nitride nanotubes (BNNTs) are strong candidates for multifunctional reinforcement in composites for use in the extreme environments of space exploration and nuclear industry, where they would be exposed to gamma radiation. In this paper, we report the effects of 158 kGy gamma irradiation on the structure and properties of BNNTs and BNNT thermoplastic polyurethane (TPU) nanocomposites with high (≥ 39 wt%) BNNT content. Our study indicates that gamma irradiation can change the structure of BNNTs. The tensile properties of the nanocomposites were highly sensitive to gamma irradiation, whereas the chemical structure of the BNNTs and TPU did not show significant change. The elongation of the irradiated nanocomposites was reduced by a factor of 10, while the elastic modulus and the ultimate tensile strength of the nanocomposites did not exhibit significant change. Degradation of the nanocomposites was attributed to degradation of the polyurethane matrix, which was likely due to radiation-induced scissions. |
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