Fully Integrated Hybrid Polymeric Carbon Nanotube Composites

摘要

This paper discusses the full integration of carbon nanotubes in polymeric matrices, for the applications as multifunctional components with optimal structural properties. The goals are to mimic on a larger scale the properties of carbon nanotubes so that they can be used more aggressively on the micro and macro scales. The idea of mimicking carbon nanotubes involves integration by tip attachment and/or sidewall functionalization, coincident polymerization, and high shear alignment in polymer based composites. These composites are different from the conventional ones, which consist of two distinct phases: matrix and reinforcing phase. Carbon nanotube composites are hybrid materials, which are designed and manufactured in order to expand out the properties of carbon nanotubes by translating their properties to each other. The integration of the carbon nanotubes into these matrices is accomplished through the architecture of special bonds, designed to foster enhanced mechanical properties, through dispersion and alignment of the carbon nanotubes.