Dispersion, Mechanical Properties and RamanSpectroscopy Analysis of Carbon NanotubeReinforced Polymer Matrix Composites

摘要

The effects of various process parameters and chemical functionalization on thedispersion, performance, and morphology of single-walled carbon nanotubes(SWNT) in epoxy resin were investigated. The process parameters considered in thestudy were carbon nanotube (CNT) wt.%, sonication methods such as bath and tipsonication, sonication time, effects of surfactant, functionalization, and solvent asdispersing agent. Nanocomposites were manufactured using various combinationsof the process parameters in both bath sonication (BS) and tip sonication (TS)methods. The objective was to establish dependable process parameters to achieveimproved CNT dispersion. The dispersion of SWNT in nanocomposites was studiedusing optical, scanning, and transmission electron microscopic examinations. Thetensile strength and modulus of the nanocomposites were investigated for all thecarbon nanotube reinforced polymer matrix composites (CNPCs) manufacturedthrough various process parameters. A significant improvement in the modulus wasobserved mostly for CNPC specimens with 0.1 wt.% SWNTs. But in most cases thestrength of the CNPCs seems to decrease as the modulus increased. Ramanspectroscopy analysis indicated that CNPCs manufactured with four hours tipsonication provided improved stress transfer properties.