INTEGRATED EMI COATINGS FOR COMPOSITES THROUGH ENGINEERED USE OF NANOFILLERS

摘要

Polymer nanocomposites that are based upon carbon nanotube/nanofiber technology can generate significant enhancements in electrical conductivity and possibly in electromagnetic interference (EMI) shielding effectiveness. However, polymer nanocomposites show large increases in viscosity during processing of thermoset materials. The increases in viscosity create challenges for practically implementing polymer nanocomposite technology in structural components that require fiber reinforcement as well. With these challenges in mind, our work focused on the development of an integrated EMI shielding coating that utilizes carbon nanofiber/nanotube technology and is co-cured with the fiber-reinforced composite. By implementing the nanofiller only where it is needed and not through the entire part, the composite can be made without requiring major changes to the composite processing method. This paper describes the integrated coating process developed, the results obtained to date with the process, and the unique supply-chain relationship we have established to rapidly commercialize this technology.