The particles while encapsulated in adhesives. Hence, for analyzing their thermal behaviour, change in volume of each specimen with increase in temperature was recorded. The temperature varied from RT to 150 degree centigrades at a very slow and controlled rate of 2 K/min, to allow a homogeneous temperature all over the sample. Three samples were tested for each specimen.
SEM analyses were performed on the fracture surfaces of the “dogbone” specimens and thermal analysis specimens using a high resolution Scanning Electron Microscope with X-Ray Microanalysis. Samples were coated with a gold (Au)/palladium (Pd) thin film (for 120 s. and with a 15 mA current), by sputtering, using the SPI Module Sputter Coater equipment prior to examination. Secondary electron images were collected at different magnifications (200 X, 500 X, 1000 X, 2000 X and 5000 X).